Chapter 29 Amelia sat at one of the picnic tables near the twins schoolyard, waiting for Debby to finish her reading club session.
The crisp afternoon air carried the laughter of children playing on the jungle gym.
She glanced at her phone, scrolling aimlessly until a shadow fell across her.
Amelia, Jamess warm voice broke through her thoughts.
She looked up, finding him standing there with his easy smile, a coffee cup in hand.
For you, he said, holding it out.
I noticed you didnt have one today.
Thought you might need it.
Amelia accepted it with a small laugh.
Youre observant, arent you? Its a teacher thing, James said, sitting down across from her.
Were trained to notice who needs a little extra support.
They chatted lightly, the conversation flowing naturally.
James asked about Damiens latest project and mentioned how Debby had been doing exceptionally well in the reading club.
Shes got a knack for storytelling, he said, his eyes lighting up.
Her imagination is incredible.
I can tell youve been fostering that at home.
Amelia smiled modestly.
Shes always had a wild imagination.
Bunny the Rabbit has been on more adventures than most people I know.
James laughed, leaning back slightly.
She told me about Bunnys expedition to the moon last week.
Id say shes a natural-born explorer.
A comfortable silence settled between them for a moment, broken only by the distant squeals of children on the playground.
James leaned forward, his expression softening.
Amelia, I was wondering… would you like to have dinner with me sometime? The question hung in the air, catching Amelia off guard.
She blinked, momentarily at a loss for words.
I mean, not as a parent-teacher thing, James clarified, a faint nervousness creeping into his voice.
Just… as two people getting to know each other better.
Amelia hesitated, her mind racing with doubts and memories of the chaos Ryan had brought into her life.
But as she looked into Jamess steady gaze, she found herself wanting to say yes.
I… I think Id like that, she said finally, a small smile playing on her lips.
Jamess face brightened.
Great.
How about Saturday? Theres this quiet little place downtown that I think youll love.
Its nothing fancy, but the food is amazing.
Saturday works, Amelia said, her voice soft.
Debbys voice interrupted them as she came running up, clutching Bunny.
Mom! Im done! Mr.
Hayes, did you tell her about Bunnys new idea? James chuckled.
Not yet.
I thought youd want to share it yourself.
Debby grinned, launching into an animated tale about Bunnys next adventure, leaving Amelia and James exchanging amused glances.
*** That Saturday, Amelia nervously stepped into the cozy restaurant James had suggested.
The warm, intimate lighting and soft clinking of dishes set a relaxed tone.
James was already there, standing to greet her as she walked in.
You look lovely, he said simply, pulling out her chair.
Thank you, Amelia replied, her cheeks warming.
As they settled in, the conversation flowed effortlessly.
James asked about her journey post-divorce, listening intently as Amelia opened up about her struggles and triumphs.
She found herself sharing things she hadnt admitted to anyone in years, his calm presence putting her at ease.
Youve been through so much, James said, his voice filled with admiration.
But here you arestronger, more amazing than ever.
Thats something to be proud of.
Amelia glanced down at her plate, the sincerity in his words leaving her momentarily speechless.
You deserve happiness, Amelia, James continued, reaching for her hand across the table.
The gesture was simple, but it carried a weight that Amelia hadnt expected.
For a fleeting moment, she allowed herself to imagine what a life with someone like James might look likesteady, kind, and free of the chaos Ryan brought.
*** Meanwhile, Ryan sat in his living room, staring at the twins drawings scattered across the coffee table.
Mr.
Hayes says Im good at building stuff, Damien had told him earlier that day, pride shining in his voice.
Ryans jaw tightened.
Mr.

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Hayes, he muttered under his breath, the name leaving a sour taste.
When Brenda called, he barely registered her voice.
Youre distracted, she accused.
What now? Ryan didnt bother to respond, his mind stuck on Amelia, out with James, and the twins idolizing a man who wasnt their father.
Everything I care about is slipping away, he said aloud, his voice thick with frustration.
Brendas laughter was cold.
Welcome to the consequences of your actions, Ryan.
Live with them.
He hung up abruptly, her words cutting deeper than he cared to admit.
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