Chapter 16 - Emma’s Second Birthday
By Emma’s second birthday, Ethan and Naomi were spending more time together.
Not officially reconciled? They were trying.
No engagement.
No shared finances.
No family pressure.
Naomi insisted:
“If we try, everybody stays out.”
Patricia:
“Especially me.”
Unexpected.
They laughed.
Emma loved Noah.
Called him “No-No.”
He hated.
Then birthday guests:
Naomi’s sister Lena.
Ethan.
Patricia.
Noah.
A few friends.
No corporate guests.
No Grants.
Then Vanessa sent gift through Naomi’s attorney? Maybe unnecessary. Better a card to Ethan earlier asking if appropriate. Naomi said no need. No intrusion.
Boundary.
Then Patricia brought Emma old photo of Marcus and Ethan as boys.
“Family history.”
No trust language.
Emma obviously didn't understand.
But Ethan did.
Then Noah saw father Marcus in image.
He asked for copy.
Patricia gave.
Simple.
Then Ethan realized family archives no longer weapons.
They could be stories.
Then late that evening Naomi asked:
“What happened to church flowers?”
He laughed.
“Donated.”
“Good.”
“Food?”
“Shelter and hospital staff.”
“Wedding cake?”
“My board ate it.”
She laughed.
The failed wedding became less sacred.
Then:
“Do you ever think about walking back?”
“No.”
Immediate.
Naomi looked.
“Vanessa?”
“I regret hurting her publicly.”
“But not leaving.”
“No.”
Because hearing daughter changed obligation.
Not because Naomi automatic soulmate.
Good.
Then:
“Do you regret nearly marrying her?”
“I regret doing it without all truth.”
Different.
Then Ethan asked:
“Do you regret telling me that day?”
“No.”
“Even timing?”
“I hated timing.”
“But Emma cried.”
He smiled.
“That was her contribution.”
No romantic mysticism.
Then Naomi said:
“I think I can trust you more now.”
Ethan looked.
“Because?”
“You tell me when you want control.”
Interesting.
He had learned to name impulse.
Then they agreed to attend counseling together before any relationship decision.
Healthy.
May you like
No proposal.
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