Page 66 of Open Net

She glanced at her mom before meeting my eyes. “Hi.”

“Did everything go okay at the hospital?” I asked.

She nodded. “Chloe had everything planned to the minute detail. It went smoothly.”

“Of course. I expected that.”

Emma’s glance veered to our son.

“He’s been changed and fed,” I said. “I was just enjoying him while he was awake for once.”

A tiny smile tugged at her lips. “He’s been awake more lately.”

Just another thing I was missing.

Janice popped out of her seat. “I’ll go rock him.” She took Jackson out of my arms and hurried up the stairs. I appreciated her giving us a chance to talk alone.

I stepped toward Emma and when she didn’t move, I took that as approval. “I’m so sorry Emma.” I looked around the living room. “I made a mistake by leaving. I was being selfish. I really thought it was the best option. I thought it would make you happier.”

Her eyes narrowed a fraction of an inch. “You thought it would be better for me to be alone?”

I shook my head. “I knew you wouldn’t be alone.”

“The girls are amazing and have helped out so much, but Olli, they’re not Jackson’s dad. They’re not my husband. I needed you and you abandoned us.”

Her words stung, but she was right. “I know, Emma. I’m so sorry. I want to make things right. I want to come home.”

Her shoulders dropped. “No.”

“No?” How bad were things? I thought if I apologized and explained myself she would understand.

“You’ve got things you need to work on. Madi told me you’re improving with physical therapy, but that’s not enough. I need to see that you’ve changed. That you’re managing your stress and anger.”

I nodded. “I’m working with Dr. Elliot. Things have gotten better.”

“Good. Keep trying.”

She walked past me, dropping her purse on the kitchen counter. I realized then she wasn’t going to make this easy on me. I respected her decision and knew she was doing what she thought was best for Jackson. In the end it was up to her.

“Okay. I will.”

“Good,” she replied but kept her gaze averted.

“I’ll see you soon,” I said. “Maybe you can stop by after practice tomorrow? I’d love to show Jackson off to the team.”

“We’ll see.”

It wasn’t a no, so I was willing to take it. “Thanks.” I took slow steps toward her, letting her set the limit. I stopped when we were face to face. “I love you, Emma.”

I didn’t give her time to respond. I was too scared she wouldn’t say it back. I kissed her forehead and she peered up at me with vulnerable eyes before blinking and stepping back. I turned, letting myself out. That bit of contact felt like heaven. It was the closest I’d been to her and I savored it.

I didn’t want to pressure her. I knew I had to go at her pace, but I really hoped she would show tomorrow. It would be a step in the right direction.

17

Emma

“Remind me again why you’re not going?” Addison asked before taking a bite of her sandwich.