Chapter 9

Chapter 9

Later, someone banged on my door. I knew it was Owen—but I wasn’t ready. I couldn’t get past what had happened.

“Mommy?” Milo rubbed his eyes, wandering out in his pajamas. I picked him up.

“Baby… do you want to meet Daddy?”

“Daddy? You said Daddy was swimming in outer space and might not come back.” He blinked, confused.

“He’s back.” I winced. Why did I say that? I wanted to go back in time and slap myself.

“Yay! I want Daddy! Let him in!”

The banging continued. I held Milo in my arms, walked to the door, and opened it.

Owen stood there, eyes bloodshot. When he saw Milo, his eyes turned even redder—like he was crying.

“Clara Bennett. We need to talk.” He grabbed my wrist and pulled me inside.

In the living room, I sat on the couch. Milo was in Owen’s arms, staring at him wide-eyed. My normally chatty son was full of surprises tonight.

“Daddy! Did you come back from outer space? Is it fun there?”

Owen glanced at me, amused, then answered Milo seriously. “I’m back. It wasn’t fun—you and Mommy weren’t there. I missed you so much I came home. But Mommy’s mad at me. Can you help me make her forgive me?”

“I want to! But I can’t. When I make Mommy mad, I have to apologize. When Mommy makes me mad, she apologizes. Daddy has to do it himself!” Milo said firmly.

I laughed—suddenly, everything felt lighter. I’d let go.