Chapter 5

**Chapter 5****Aria’s POV**“We’ve arrived at Shevron Estates, ma’am,” the Uber driver announced, his voice barely rising above the hum of the engine as it idled.As the car came to a halt, I felt a flutter of anxiety in my chest. I glanced out the window, taking in the imposing wrought-iron gates that marked the entrance to this upscale community. My heart raced with a mix of anticipation and dread.In my arms, little Lana stirred, letting out a soft whimper that sent a wave of concern washing over me. She squirmed against me, and I instinctively knew something was amiss. A quick touch confirmed my fears—her diaper was utterly soaked.“Oh, sweetheart…” I murmured, pulling her closer to me as if my embrace could shield her from the cold that seeped into the air. The night was crisp, the kind of chill that hinted at the frost of early winter, and the thought of her catching a cold sent a shiver down my spine. I couldn’t allow her to fall ill, not after all we had endured together.Lana shifted again, her warm cheek pressed against my chest, and I gently brushed her hair back, inhaling the faint, sweet scent of milk that clung to her. It was a reminder of innocence in a world that felt increasingly harsh.