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I have questions. Noah must have them too.
Were they in love?
Was she an addict when they met?
Did he try to help her?
How could she leave her baby girl like that?
“She knows she was an addict, and she knows that she died. But I haven’t gone into too much detail.” He glances down at the grass. “I don’t really know how to explain it all. She’s so young.”
I nod. “You’ll know when the time is right. It’s not easy to have these conversations, but what matters is that she knows she can come to you and ask questions. Communication is important, especially at this age.” Our chat the other day comes to the forefront of my mind. “She’s at a really pivotal time in her life and she’s going to experience some…changes.”
“I don’t think I’m equipped for this phase.” His eyes stay trained on his hands like he’s deep in thought. “There’s so much I don’t know. So much I can’t help her with.”
I lean forward and grip his hand. “Hey, look at me. You’re going to be okay. Nobody knows what they’re doing. There’s no perfect parent. As long as you love her and you’re here for her, that’s all that matters in the end. And I can answer any questions you might not know. Not that you need me. I’m sure you have a family and friends too. I’m just saying…”
“Thank you.” His frown deepens as she stares at our clasped hands. “She likes having you around.”
“You say it like it’s a bad thing.”
He shakes his head and meets my eyes. “I’m hesitant to let new people into her life.”
“People are going to come in and out of her life as she grows up. Not everyone is meant to stay. But they’re all meant to teach her a lesson.”
He gives me a dubious look, like he doesn’t believe me.
“Your ex had a purpose. She gave you Noah. And despite how it ended, I’d say it was worth it.”
His thumb grazes my skin, brushing back and forth across the top of my hand. “I love that kid so much it hurts.”
Emotion constricts my throat, making it hard to swallow like it always does whenever someone talks about his love for his child.
“I know you do.” I squeeze his hand. “You’re both so lucky to have each other.”
“Maybe the reason Noah had to steal your candy bowl was so that you could be in her life.”
“Maybe.”
That’s a sweet notion, one I didn’t expect coming from him.
I turn to walk back to my car, but Grant tugs my hand, not letting it go.
“Regardless of the reason, I’m glad you’re here, Elena.”
My skin prickles with awareness, heat pooling in my chest. “I’m glad you let me be.”
11
Elena
My stomach clenchesas I pull into my driveway, my eyes on the man leaning against the silver BMW parked in front of my house.
I could put the car in reverse and drive away. I don’thaveto face him.
But that won’t make him go away.
With a groan, I swing open my car door and step outside. “Hi, Neil. What can I do for you on this lovely day?”
