The transplant was successful.
Jacob’s body responded well, and in a few weeks, his appetite returned, along with his giggles.
But winning back Grace’s trust wasn’t as simple.
One evening, after reading to Jacob, Ethan found her in the corridor, her arms folded tightly across her chest.
“You did a good thing,” she said, not quite looking at him.
“I’m trying to do better things,” Ethan replied.
“Why now?” she asked. “Why not before?”
He swallowed hard.
“Because I was scared. I grew up with a father who measured love in achievements. I didn’t know how to love without conditions. And I didn’t want to ruin you or our child the way he ruined me.”
She was silent.
“I’ve made more money than I can ever spend,” he continued, “but none of it means anything without people who believe in me. And you did… until I pushed you away.”
She looked at him then. Her eyes were tired, but not unkind.
“You still have a lot to prove.”
“I know,” he said. “And I will. Every day.”
