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“Well, I’ll try my best not to,” I insist. “Maybe I’m just having doubts because Matthew’s back as well. I know I should have called him to try and fix things between him and Emma but…I just haven’t.”
Olivia’s eyes soften. “Lily, please don’t doubt yourself because Matthew is back. He was always putting you down. You have a kind and compassionate heart. You would never try to replace Sarah. The love you have for Blake and this baby is unique and special. Just like the bond he shared with Sarah. It’s different but the same. And your love for the new baby will be its own beautiful thing, just like your love for Emma and Ethan.”
I feel a surge of gratitude for her. For her wisdom and unwavering support.
“You’re right, Olivia.” She has a way of grounding me, reminding me of my own strength.
“Of course, I am,” she jokes.
“I need to embrace our connection,” I tell her. “I can honor Sarah’s memory. I don’t want to replace her. I think if we keep her memory alive, Ethan will be okay. We can all bond with the baby together.”
I’m not sure how it’s going to work, but we can figure it all out together.
Olivia’s smile widens, her eyes sparkling with encouragement. “Exactly, Lily. You have so much love to give, and we are all fortunate to have you in our lives. Just be true to yourself, and everything will fall into place.”
I lean forward and give Olivia a heartfelt hug, grateful for her guidance.
“Thank you, Olivia. Your words mean the world to me.”
Olivia returns the hug, her warmth radiating through our embrace. “You’ve got this, Lily. I do not doubt that you’ll be an amazing mother to Ethan because you already are. And remember, I’m always here for you.”
Chapter 26
Blake
Iwalkhandinhand with Lily; the dim glow of the streetlamps casts a warm ambiance around us as we make our way to the restaurant. Tonight is a special evening; it’s date night. A chance for us to escape the chaos of everyday life and enjoy each other’s company. We have both been longing for a moment of peace. We’ve been so busy the past few weeks. The kids are settling back into their school year. Lily has been focussing on work and has finally told everyone she is pregnant. She is preparing the girls for her going on maternity leave. Whereas, I have been sorting out our future living arrangements. Tonight is for us. Olivia has agreed to have the kids for us, so we are blissfully child-free for the evening.
As we step into the elegant establishment, the air is filled with the tantalizing aroma of exquisite cuisine. Soft music plays in the background, creating a romantic atmosphere that matches the fluttering anticipation in my chest. I glance at Lily, her eyes sparkling with excitement, and I can’t help but smile too.
We’re shown to our table, tucked away in a cozy corner of the restaurant. The soft candlelight casts a gentle glow on Lily’s face, accentuating her beauty. It feels like we’re in our own soft little bubble, a world where time stands still.
The waitress approaches our table, her professional smile adding to the refined ambiance. She holds a notepad and pen, ready to take our orders.
“Good evening,” she greets us warmly. “Are you ready to order?”
I glance at the menu one last time, my eyes drawn to the section featuring the chef’s specialties. My choice is clear, and I look up at the waitress with a smile.
“I’ll have the Beef Wellington, please,” I say, my voice confident and filled with anticipation for the culinary delight to come. It’s been a while since we’ve been out on a date. In fact, when I think about it, I haven’t ever taken Lily out like this. We really have done everything backward.
The waitress nods, jotting down my order. She then turns to Lily, her attention focused and attentive.
“And for you, madam?”
Lily scans the menu, her eyes carefully considering the options. She looks a little hesitant and I suspect she’s looking at the prices.
“Whatever you like, sweetheart,” I remind her.
“Okay,” she agrees. “I’ll have the risotto, please,” Lily says, her voice tinged with excitement.
The waitress nods, scribbling down the order before turning her attention back to us. “Excellent choices. Can I offer you any drinks?”
I glance at the wine list, my gaze settling on a rich red that pairs perfectly with the Beef Wellington. “I’ll have a glass of your finest red wine, please,” I request, knowing that its flavors will complement the meal.
Lily, on the other hand, prefers a non-alcoholic option, keeping her focus on the health and well-being of our growing family. “I’ll have a virgin pina colada, please,” she says with a smile. “No alcohol. I’m pregnant.” She puts her hands over her stomach protectively.
The waitress nods with a smile, noting down our drink orders. “Very well. Your food and drinks will be on their way shortly. Please enjoy your evening.”
With a polite nod, the waitress departs, leaving us to bask in the anticipation of a delectable meal and the warmth of each other’s company.
