Chapter 10 - THE FIRST WORD
Luca spoke again on a Tuesday.
Not because someone demanded it.
Not because a therapist counted down.
Not because Vincent promised him a reward.
It happened during breakfast.
Emily had brought a new drawing.
A green dragon wearing a tiny chef's hat.
She placed it beside Luca's plate.
“King Broccoli has opened a restaurant.”
Luca smiled.
Emily continued.
“Unfortunately, he only serves vegetables.”
Vincent laughed.
Luca picked up the drawing.
He studied it.
Then looked at Emily.
His lips moved.
Vincent froze.
Emily waited.
A small sound escaped Luca's mouth.
“D…”
Vincent's heart pounded.
Luca tried again.
“Dragon.”
The room went silent.
Emily smiled gently.
“That's right.”
Vincent covered his mouth.
Tears filled his eyes.
Luca looked at him.
For a moment, he seemed uncertain.
Then he whispered:
“Daddy.”
Vincent began crying.
He knelt beside his son.
“I'm here.”
Luca touched his face.
Then whispered:
“Miss Mommy.”
Vincent closed his eyes.
He held his son.
“I miss her too.”
Emily turned away, wiping her eyes.
For the first time in four hundred and twelve days, Luca had found his voice.
May you like
Not because grief had disappeared.
But because he finally felt safe enough to let it be heard.
