Chapter 13 - THE GIRL WHO CHOSE HER FAMILY
Sophie was eight when Gabriel told her he loved Emma.
He sat beside her on the living room floor.
Emma was in the kitchen.
Gabriel signed slowly.
I love Emma.
Sophie smiled.
I know.
Gabriel blinked.
You know?
She nodded.
You smile when she comes.
Gabriel laughed.
Then Sophie grew serious.
Will Emma leave?
Gabriel's expression softened.
I don't know the future.
Sophie looked down.
He continued.
But we will always tell you the truth.
Sophie considered that.
Then signed:
I love her too.
Gabriel smiled.
That evening, Sophie approached Emma.
She held a drawing.
Three birds sitting on a branch.
One large.
One medium.
One small.
Emma smiled.
Beautiful.
Sophie shook her head.
It's us.
Emma stared.
Sophie pointed.
Daddy.
You.
Me.
Emma's eyes filled.
Sophie looked nervous.
Can I call you something special?
Emma crouched.
What?
Sophie hesitated.
Then signed:
My Emma.
Emma began crying.
She hugged the little girl.
And for the first time since Noah died, she felt the shape of family changing around her.
May you like
Not replacing what she'd lost.
But making room for love again.
