Climbing into bed, I moved carefully, settling beside Debra.
I reached out to hold her, but the moment my hand brushed her, she flinched away.
The gesture left a hollow ache in my chest.
A torrent of justifications flooded my mind.
I wanted to assure her I was only drunk that night, that she was the only woman I loved.
I wouldnât let Alexandria or the child disrupt our Lives.
Excuses swirled, but none escaped my lips.
All I could manage was a defeated sigh.
Finally, I spoke, my voice barely a whisper.
âIâm sorry.
â
The room remained silent, punctuated only by the soft rhythm of Debraâs breathing.
Debraâs POV:
The next morning, I woke up to the lively chatter and quick footsteps of kids in the hallway.
Dylanâs and Elenaâs voices drifted through the door.
âWe miss Mommy.
Is she awake? Can we see her now?â
Their excitement made me smile.
Jeniferâs calming voice soon joined in.
âYour mommyâs been up all night with the baby.
Let her rest a little longer.
â
Elena was determined.
âI can help with the baby.
Please, let Mom play with usâ¦â
Jenifer laughed gently.
âElena, youâre still a child.
Just be patient and donât make any trouble.
â
I wondered why Dylan was so quiet.
Before I could think more, the door creaked open, and there was Dylan, as bold as ever.
Jeniferâs shocked voice came from the hallway.
âDylan, you canât just barge in like that! Come out!â
But Dylan paid no attention and ran straight to my bed.
I couldnât help but laugh, seeing his eager face, though I felt a bit helpless.
Before I could say anything, Elena rushed in too.
The kids, thrilled to see me awake, kicked off their shoes and climbed onto the bed.
âMommy, we miss you so much!â they shouted with glee, with each child clinging to one of my arms.
I asked, âHow am I supposed to get up and wash if you two stay Like this?â
Elena, pouting, hugged me tightly.
âI dreamed you left us last night.
I cried because I was so sad.
Now Iâm really happy youâre here.
I want to stay with you.
â
Dylan, silent but firm, held my arm just as tightly.
Feeling their unease, I gently rubbed their heads and promised, âIâm sorry for the past.
I wonât disappear again.
Iâll always be here with you.
â