I was right. She was never meant to be a mother. That’s a full-time job requiring dedication—and above all, love.
I’ve been reading everything I can about single motherhood because I’m not assuming Amos will take this on with me. No matter what the future holds, I want Bruno as my own.
I’m also researching how to help a child who’s experienced trauma like his. From what I’ve learned, he’ll need therapy, and we’ll need to respect his healing process, though some scars may always remain.
I already feel like he’s my son. His little arms around my neck and his sweet scent are the highlight of my day—along with being with my gorgeous giant, of course. Bruno smiles more now, and sometimes even lets himself act like the little boy he is. Our movie and popcorn nights, once a week, are making it harder and harder to return him.
I’d give anything to erase the pain he’s been through, but since I can’t, I’ll build a beautiful life for my little boy moving forward.
I just got back from the recovery house where Amos arranged for the rescued children to stay while they await their families. I don’t know how he managed it, but he organized everything so they wouldn’t have to go to orphanages, given thespecial circumstances. They’re being cared for by psychologists and nurses.
Bruno was transferred there too—and now has a room of his own. Still, I can’t wait to finally bring him home with me permanently.
I’ve been looking at houses to buy, and there’s one in particular that has stolen my heart.
It’s not near the city, but the property is almost like a small farm. I’ve even thought about maybe raising horses one day. I’ve read that animal interaction helps children who’ve been abused.
I’ve decided to take a break from college for a semester or two. My studies can wait—Bruno can’t. I don’t want to leave him with nannies, especially now. He needs to feel safe, and I’m afraid if I pull away because of school, all the progress we’ve made will be lost.
I’m almost home when my neighbor from across the hall opens her door. I’ve seen her a few times in the elevator—a very sweet older lady. She moves a little slower these days, but she’s always smiling. And she has the most adorable little poodle, Fluffy.
“Lilly, sweetheart, how are you?”
“I’m good, Mrs. Ester. And you?”
“Oh, darling, how many times have I told you? Just call me Ester,” she smiles. “I just made some fresh coffee. Would you share a cup with me?”
I hesitate for a second, glancing quickly at my watch. Amos will be here any minute, but seeing the loneliness on her face, I can’t bring myself to say no. “Of course. Let me just drop off these bags and I’ll be right there.”
She seems unsure for a moment but then nods. I open my door and put the groceries in the kitchen, then send a quick message to Amos, just in case he arrives while I’m next door.
I know he’d worry if he didn’t find me home.
Only then do I head out, ready to do my good deed for the day.
Chapter 66
I shove my laptop into my backpack in a rush.
Every day is like this: as the time to see her draws closer, my body starts heating up, shedding its usual tension.
The thought of being with Lilly always has the power to wipe away any exhaustion.
It still amazes me that even after all this time, I never get tired of her. No matter how much we’re together, I always want more.
The only person I don’t mind sharing her with is Bruno. I like watching them together. I love seeing how Lilly helps him open up.
Sometimes they’re sitting on the floor coloring in, and little by little, he snuggles closer to her. By the afternoon, he’s usually nestled between her legs, eating cookies or just gazing at her with adoration as we talk.
You can’t be near my angel without wanting her light, and both that little boy, who’s becoming more important to us each day, and I, need that light.
I still haven’t moved out of the apartment I share with Ethan, like I’d planned, because I’ve decided I’m going to ask her to marry me.
Maybe I’m being selfish, considering Lilly hasn’t experienced much of life yet, but I love her and I don’t want to wait.
Watching her grow each day—shedding her girlhood and becoming an independent woman—is beautiful to witness. And I’m not ashamed to say I won’t give anyone else the chance to come in and take her from me.
I’m parking in her building’s garage when my phone vibrates—a message notification. As soon as I see Lilly’s name on the screen, a bit of unease creeps in.
