Chapter 39 The late afternoon sun filtered through the windows of Ryans office, casting warm light over the mahogany desk piled with files.
Ryan leaned back in his chair, rubbing his temples as his lawyer, a sharp-suited man with a calm demeanor, studied him carefully.
Are you sure about this? the lawyer asked, his pen poised over a yellow legal pad.
Family matters are delicate, and if you push too hard, you could risk losing the progress youve made with Amelia.
Ryans jaw tightened as he straightened, determination flashing in his eyes.
Im not just doing this for her.
Its for Damien and Debby.
I owe it to them to be the father I wasnt before.
The lawyer nodded thoughtfully.
Then tread carefully.
Consistency is key.
Actions speak louder than words.
Ryan rose, pacing the office as his thoughts churned.
Ill prove to Amelia that Ive changed.
No more empty promises or half-measures.

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He glanced at the lawyer.
Draft whatever legal agreements we need to protect the kids, but Im going to earn her trust back, not force it.
The lawyer jotted down notes but said nothing further.
Ryans mind was already racing ahead, planning his next steps.
*** That weekend, Ryan arrived early at Amelias house to pick up the twins for their planned day at the aquarium.
Damien opened the door, his face lighting up in surprise.
Youre on time, he said, his tone neutral but faintly impressed.
Always, Ryan replied with a small smile, ruffling Damiens hair.
Go grab your sister.
Weve got an adventure waiting.
The day unfolded smoothly.
At the aquarium, Damien pressed his nose against the glass of the shark exhibit, firing off questions about each species.
Ryan crouched beside him, answering as best he could, their easy camaraderie growing with each interaction.
Debby clung to his hand, her small fingers wrapped tightly around his as they watched jellyfish pulsate under glowing lights.
Do you think theyre happy? she asked softly.
Ryan looked down at her, his chest tightening.
I think they are, he said.
Theyve got everything they need right here.
Debby smiled, her trust in him inching closer to what it had once been.
*** Amelia stood at the window that evening, watching as Ryan walked the twins to the door.
Damien was animated, showing Ryan a drawing hed made at the aquarium.
Debby clutched a small stuffed penguin Ryan had bought her, her eyes glowing with contentment.
As the twins darted inside, Amelia hesitated before speaking.
Youre doing better, she admitted quietly, her tone neutral.
Ryan met her gaze, a flicker of hope in his expression.
Im not stopping until I get it rightfor them and for you.
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