Chapter 30 Amelias afternoons began to feel lighter as she spent more time with James.
Their conversations were easy, filled with laughter and mutual understanding.
Jamess ability to connect with the twins impressed her, and even her best friend Sammie noticed.
Hes good for you, Sammie said over coffee one afternoon, her tone gentle but firm.
I havent seen you this relaxed in years.
Amelia hesitated, swirling her cup.
Its just… different.
Hes kind, dependable.
But its scary, you know? Trusting someone again.
Sammie smiled knowingly.
Take it slow, but dont let fear hold you back.
You deserve to be happy.
Amelia nodded, a flicker of hope warming her chest.
*** At Damiens soccer game, Ryan stood by the bleachers, hands shoved into his pockets as he watched his son dart across the field.
He noticed Amelia sitting on the other side, her smile soft as she cheered for Damien.
Gathering his courage, Ryan walked over.
Hey, he said, his voice hesitant.
Amelia turned, her smile fading.
Ryan.
I just wanted to say… Im sorry, he began, his words unsteady.
For everything.
I know I messed up, and I know I cant undo the past.
But Im trying, Amelia.
I dont want to lose you.
Or the kids.
Amelias expression hardened.
You already did, Ryan.
And no amount of apologies will change that.
Her words hit him like a punch to the gut, but he nodded, swallowing his pride.
I just wanted you to know how I feel.
I love you.
This will never change.
So just say a word and Ill be there when youre ready.
As he turned to leave, Amelia watched him go, a mix of emotions swirling inside her.
*** That night, Ryan returned home to find an envelope on his kitchen counter.
His name was scrawled across the front in Brendas unmistakable handwriting.

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Inside was a sonogram picture.
A smug note was attached: Hes going to be just like his dad.
Ryan stared at it, his heart heavy.
The weight of his decisions bore down on him as he thought about the life he was about to bring into the worldand the lives he had already let slip through his fingers.
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