Chapter 14 - THE LOVE HE HAD TO EARN AGAIN
The divorce was finalized four months after Isabella's birth.
Alexander didn't fight it.
He signed the papers.
Respected the custody arrangements.
And continued attending therapy.
He visited Isabella regularly.
Learned to change diapers.
Prepare bottles.
Soothe her when she cried.
And show up when he said he would.
For months, our conversations were only about our daughter.
Then, slowly, they became about other things.
Books.
Work.
Memories.
The future.
One afternoon, Alexander stood at my apartment door.
“Claire.”
I looked up.
“Yes?”
He hesitated.
“Would you ever consider having dinner with me?”
My heart skipped.
I stared.
“As what?”
He swallowed.
“As two people who used to love each other.”
I looked at him.
Then said, “I still love you.”
His eyes filled.
“But love wasn't enough before.”
He nodded.
“I know.”
I swallowed.
“And I won't return to the same marriage.”
He looked at me.
“I'm not asking you to.”
Silence.
Then he said, “I'm asking whether I can earn the chance to know you again.”
I looked down.
Then smiled faintly.
“Dinner.”
Alexander froze.
“Really?”
I nodded.
“One dinner.”
May you like
He laughed through tears.
“That's more than I deserve.”
