“Thank you for the sandwich,” I said quickly, grabbing the plate and leaving the kitchen before he could respond.
***
The day had turned strangely hot, the sky heavy with dark clouds promising a storm.
Clara played in the garden, oblivious to the looming rain.
“Clara, it’s better to come inside now,” I called.
“No! I want to play more!” she laughed, spinning as the first thick raindrops fell.
I sighed, about to insist, when Enrico passed me with an easy smile.
“I’ve got this,” he said, already heading toward her.
I stood frozen, watching.
He knelt beside Clara, smiling warmly.
“Enjoying the rain, princess?”
She nodded, arms lifted, laughing as the rain grew heavier.
“Then let’s enjoy it,” he said, taking her hands and spinning with her, dancing freely in the storm.
My heart lodged painfully in my throat.
The sight of him laughing, soaked and unguarded, pulled old memories from deep inside me.
We used to do that.
Dance in the rain.
Laugh like nothing could ever break us.
Tears mixed with rain on my face as I watched father and daughter twirl together—natural, joyful, devastating.
I promised myself I wouldn’t let myself feel that happiness again.
Hope was dangerous.
And I had already paid too high a price for believing in it once.
FORTY-EIGTH
ENRICO FERRARA
The child psychologist’s office was warm and inviting, painted in soft colors, with low shelves neatly arranged with toys, books, and games.
Valentina and I sat in separate armchairs facing Dr. Alice Guedes, while Clara was in the adjacent room, absorbed in a supervised activity.
Dr. Alice observed us carefully, a gentle, reassuring smile on her face as she skimmed through the reports in her hands.
“It’s been two months since Clara was discharged,” she began calmly. “I’d like to hear how you’ve both perceived her progress since then.”
Valentina inhaled deeply, casting me a brief glance before answering.
“She seems more secure now. She’s sleeping better, the nightmares have stopped, and she’s opened up to me again. I think having a more stable routine has helped a lot.”
