Chapter 9
Time softened the pain.
The memory of that terrible birthday faded, replaced by days of joy and laughter.
Leo grew strong. Confident. Kind.
He never forgot what it felt like to be looked down upon. And so he always stood up for others.
Elena watched him and saw hope.
Hope for the future. Hope that goodness could overcome evil. Hope that love truly could conquer anything.
One evening, she took Leo to the place where she had first held him after his birth. A quiet spot overlooking the city.
"Do you ever think about them?" Leo asked. "Aunt Vivian and Uncle Richard?"
Elena considered.
"I used to be angry," she said. "But now? I mostly feel sorry for them. Because they will never know what we have. They will never know what it feels like to love someone more than yourself. To be truly family."
Leo leaned his head against her shoulder.
"I don't hate them anymore," he said. "But I'm glad we're here."
May you like
Elena kissed the top of his head.
"So am I, my son. So am I."
