Oliver regressed almost immediately. The night cries returned—this time calling, “Mama Emmy.”
Adrian attempted distraction. He went to dinner with his polished executive assistant, Vanessa. She fit seamlessly into his corporate life. But while she discussed market trends, his mind replayed Emily’s laughter.
“You’re thinking about her,” Vanessa observed coolly.
He didn’t deny it.
“Then stop being afraid,” she said. “Life doesn’t give second chances often.”
The next morning, Adrian skipped the office. He buckled a teary Oliver into the car and drove to a modest neighborhood he had never visited before.
Three flights of stairs later, Emily opened the door in worn jeans, eyes swollen from crying.
“Daddy! Mama!” Oliver shouted, reaching for her.
She gathered him instinctively, and Adrian saw something shift in his son instantly—peace returning like sunlight.
“I was a coward,” Adrian said softly. “My house is empty without you. Oliver needs you. I need you.”
“We come from different worlds,” she whispered. “They’ll say I trapped you. They’ll destroy your reputation.”
“Let them talk,” he replied. “I’ve survived corporate wars. I can survive gossip. But I can’t survive losing you.”