My chance to do one thing right.
The cabin trip is happening. Jess can push back all she wants. But at the end of the day, this is my call.
And I’m making it.
For Ben.
For us.
For the future I’m trying to build that doesn’t look like a museum to grief and fear.
Even if Jess thinks I’m reckless.
Control masquerading as care.
Gideon’s words echo in my head like a timer going off in a busy kitchen.
Except this isn’t control. This is teaching. This is letting go just enough to let her grow.
Isn’t it?
Later that afternoon, when I’m at the office, Filepe texts.Route staged. Sat-comms tested. Ranger on standby.
Good.
My phone rings. Livia. Ben’s grandmother. Isotta’s mother.
“Marco, we got your message about the camping trip.” Her voice has that firm tone she uses when she’s already decided something. “We’dlike to take Benedetta for a few days first. Spoil her a little before you drag her into the wilderness.”
Dragher. Right.
I sigh mentally.
“When?” I ask.
“Tonight through Friday morning. Enzo wants to take her to the bakery. Show her how he makes thesfogliatelle.”
“You know she has school, right?”
“Kindergartenis hardly school,” Liva scoffs. “A place where the kidsplayall day, rather thanlearn. Besides, she could use a couple of days off.”
I should say no. Should keep the routine tight. But Ben loves her nonno’s bakery. And honestly, a few days of peace before the trip wouldn’t hurt.
“Fine,” I tell her. “Six o’clock pickup.”
“We’ll be there.” A pause. “And Marco? Be careful with her out there. Very careful.”
Like I wouldn’t be.
After I hang up, I open my thread with Jess and type:Ben’s taking Thursday and Friday off school. In-laws picking up Ben tonight at 6. Overnight through Friday morning. Spoiling her before the trip.
Jess replies:Got it. I’ll have her bag ready.
Everything is in place.
Mise en placefor a weekend that has to go right.
Because if it doesn’t, I’ll never forgive myself.
