Oscar climbed onto a kitchen stool and read more of his book.
Chloe lowered her voice. “We can discuss this further another time, Paul. For now, let’s focus on making this visit positive for Oscar.”
Paul nodded, and an uneasy silence settled between them.
Oscar closed his book and looked expectantly at Paul. “Dad, do you want to see my elf costume?”
“That’d be awesome.”
As Oscar dashed off to his room, Chloe moved away from the counter. “I’ll go help him. You can wait in the living room, if you like.”
Paul took a step toward her, then stopped. “Chloe, I meant what I said. I hope you’ll consider giving me a chance.”
She paused in the doorway, her back to him. “We’ll see, Paul. One thing I’ve learned over the last few years is that actions speak louder than words.”
She went upstairs to find Oscar carefully laying out his costume on his bed.
“Do you think Dad enjoys visiting us?” he asked innocently.
She smiled into Oscar’s trusting eyes. “I think he does. He’s happy to see you.”
“That’s good,” Oscar said, adjusting the elf hat. “Do you think he’ll like the play?”
“I can’t imagine anyone not liking it,” she replied. “Your dad loves Christmas and singing carols as much as you do.”
With Oscar looking much happier, they returned downstairs. When they reached the living room, he proudly showed off his costume.
Paul seemed impressed. “Wow, that’s a great costume. You’ll be the best elf on the stage.”
Oscar grinned from ear to ear. “Mrs. Thompson said we’re all special ‘cos we’re a team.”
Chloe glanced at the clock. The hour-long visit they’d planned was nearly over. “We need to get ready for the play.”
Thankfully, Paul took the hint. “I should let you get organized, then.”
“Are you sure you’ll be at the play?” Oscar asked.
Paul looked at Chloe, then back at Oscar. “Yes, I’ll be there.”
Oscar’s face lit up. “Yeah!”
Chloe picked up an envelope off the hall table. “This is your ticket to Oscar’s school play. The doors to the auditorium open at five-thirty. We should be finished by seven.”
Paul slid the envelope into his jacket pocket. “Thanks.”
She opened the front door and looked at Oscar. He was clinging to Paul’s hand, making the most of having his dad beside him.
“I’ll look for you when I’m on the stage,” he told Paul.
Paul nodded. “I’ll wave so you can see me. Break a leg tonight—that means good luck.” He crouched down and hugged Oscar tight. “I love you, buddy.”
“Love you too, Dad.”
Paul stood and turned to Chloe. “Thank you for today.”
She met his gaze. “We’ll be in touch.”
He gave a faint smile before stepping onto the veranda.
