Prologue: A Miracle Marred by Despair

I had always dreamed of becoming a mother—a vision filled with tender moments, soft lullabies, and a future crafted with endless love. After years of longing, that dream finally materialized in the form of three beautiful triplet daughters: Sophie, Lily, and Grace. Their arrival was nothing short of miraculous, a blessing I had prayed for throughout the lonely nights of waiting and hope.

In the quiet hours following their birth, as I cradled each tiny face and marveled at their peaceful slumber in the bassinets, my heart swelled with an indescribable love. Every little coo and gentle sigh affirmed that these three perfect souls were the embodiment of my deepest desires. Yet, amidst the overwhelming joy, fate had one more cruel twist in store.

It was the day after our discharge from the hospital—a day that should have been filled with the promise of a new beginning—that my world shattered. My husband, Jack, returned from errands, his face drained of color, eyes distant and unseeing. Instead of sharing in the wonder of our newfound family, he stood by the door, a heavy silence between us. And then, in a voice that trembled with both fear and resignation, he uttered the words I never thought I’d have to hear:
  ”Emily, I don’t think we can keep them.”