New Storm?

Lia’s POV The drive home felt like crossing into another world. Snow-dusted highways wound through the countryside, fairy lights twinkling in distant villages as the holiday spirit enveloped everything. My suitcase rattled in the trunk, packed with gifts and a fragile hope for uncomplicated joy. Sam's texts had escalated from gentle nudges to outright demands: Door's open. Mom's turkey is legendary this year. Don't make me send a car. I'd laughed, but beneath it, a knot of anxiety twisted. Home meant faces I'd sidestepped—old friends with prying eyes, echoes of Lucas's lingering gaze from afar. Still, peace had fortified me. I could handle this. Pulling into the driveway of our sprawling family estate, I killed the engine and breathed deep. The house glowed like a beacon—garlands draping the porch, a massive wreath on the door. Before I could grab my bag, the front door flew open. "Lia!" Mom rushed out, arms wide, her apron dusted with flour. She enveloped me in a hug that smelled of c