“He’s getting good at building those.”
“He gets his patience from you,” she said softly. “Even if it took us seven years to learn that.”
My mother had tried to visit twice during those three months, apologizing one moment and demanding access to her grandson the next.
Jessi and I remained united.
Until Wendy fully acknowledged the damage caused by her manipulation, she would have no place in Leo’s life.
For the first time in seven years, my days were not controlled by military orders, old anger, or regret.
Leo ran back toward the porch carrying his rocket proudly. His blue-gray eyes were bright.
“Ivan?”
“Yeah, buddy?”
“Are you staying for dinner tonight?”
I looked at Jessi.
She gave me a small nod.
I knelt beside Leo and rested a hand gently on his shoulder.
“I’m staying for dinner tonight. And I’m not planning to disappear again.”
Morning light stretched across the quiet street, laying pale shadows over the frosted grass.
