“Read me a story!” she demands like a princess that she is.
He picks her up, puts her on his knee and starts reading.
Jo’s brothers and cousins haven’t arrived yet, but there is already a huge pile of presents for Gwen in the living room. Unlike most kids, she isn’t all that interested in gifts. She prefers spending time with her grandparents and grand-uncle and -aunt. I’m grateful she sees and understands how valuable love is. She’s smarter than I ever was.
My phone buzzes. I glance at the screen.
–Unknown Number: Happy birthday to Gwen. Did she get my presents? I hope she can visit this year. - Dad
He got a new phone, just like he does every birthday and Christmas. I block the number, just like always, and ignore him. If he wants to make a genuine gesture, he knows what he needs to do. But he’s not going to, because he can’t imagine a world where he has to give something up. I hope he’s happy with Mom and the choices he’s made.
“Who’s that?” she asks.
“Nobody important.” As the words leave my mouth, I realize it’s true.
I pull Jo closer, feeling her softness against my frame. I look at our surroundings—the smiles, laughter, the smells of amazing food coming from the kitchen, Hugo walking in with a huge box of gifts and a tight hug for Gwen and ever
yone else…
All the love and joy and happiness overflow in my heart.
I press a kiss to Jo’s forehead. I have everything I’ve ever dreamed of and more.
——