Elena’s POV
The months after the court hearing blurred. Damien proved himself every single day. He showed up for Leo without pressure. He listened when I spoke about my fears. He respected my boundaries. He apologized again and again, not with grand gestures but with quiet consistency. He helped with Leo’s bedtime stories. He attended doctor appointments when I allowed it. He was there, but not overwhelming. The man I had fallen in love with was still there, but softer. Changed.
Marcus played a big part in the healing too. He sat with me one evening after Leo was asleep. “I talked to Victor again,” he said. “He is really trying. He has been sober for months. He wants to see Leo. He wants to make amends. I told him it is your choice. But he is different now. He is listening.”
I looked at
