Chapter 13 - THE WOMAN WHO REFUSED TO BE OWNED
Eliza returned to work when Amelia was several months old.
Before marrying Dominic, she had studied architecture and interior design.
She opened a small studio in Chicago.
Her first project was a restaurant renovation.
Then a boutique hotel.
Then a family home.
She loved the work.
Loved making decisions.
Loved having something that belonged entirely to her.
One afternoon, Paige visited the studio.
Eliza stood beside a wall covered in fabric samples.
Paige smiled.
“You look happy.”
Eliza laughed softly.
“I am.”
Paige looked toward the stroller beside the desk.
“And Amelia?”
Eliza smiled.
“Doing wonderfully.”
She leaned down and kissed her daughter's forehead.
For the first time in years, she felt hopeful without needing Dominic to be part of the reason.
---
Dominic began attending scheduled visits with Amelia.
He arrived on time.
Followed Eliza's instructions.
And never asked her to reconsider the divorce during those visits.
Sometimes Amelia smiled when she saw him.
Sometimes she cried.
Dominic learned to be patient.
One afternoon, Eliza watched him change a diaper.
He struggled with the tiny tabs.
Amelia kicked her feet.
Dominic laughed.
“All right, princess. I'm learning.”
May you like
Eliza smiled despite herself.
For the first time, she saw him respond to someone else's needs without expecting praise.
