Chapter 9 - BELLA'S BIRTHDAY WISH
Bella turned six in April.
Adrian planned a small birthday party.
No politicians.
No business associates.
No elaborate displays of wealth.
Just family.
Friends.
And a strawberry cake.
Bella insisted Elena attend.
"Papa, Sarah makes the best hot chocolate."
Adrian smiled.
"Her name is Elena."
Bella frowned.
"Why?"
Adrian hesitated.
Then said:
"Sometimes people use different names when they're trying to stay safe."
Bella considered.
"Was she scared?"
"Yes."
Bella looked sad.
"Is she still?"
Adrian nodded.
"Sometimes."
Bella thought for a moment.
"Then we should make her feel welcome."
Adrian smiled.
"That's a good idea."
Elena arrived carrying a small gift.
A children's book about the stars.
Bella opened it.
Her eyes widened.
"I love it!"
Elena smiled.
"There's a page about constellations."
Bella hugged her.
Elena froze.
Then slowly hugged her back.
For years, physical closeness had frightened her.
But Bella's embrace felt different.
Safe.
After the party, Adrian found Elena standing on the terrace.
"Thank you for coming."
She smiled faintly.
"She insisted."
He laughed.
"She's very persuasive."
Elena looked toward the house.
"She's wonderful."
Adrian's expression softened.
"She is."
They stood quietly.
Then Elena said:
"I never thought I'd feel normal again."
Adrian looked at her.
"What does normal look like?"
She smiled.
"Birthday cake. Children laughing. Not checking every exit."
He nodded.
"That sounds good."
Elena looked at him.
"For the first time, I think I might get there."
May you like
Adrian smiled.
"I hope you do."
