THE STORY OF US - 2. Chapter 2: 6 years later....

6 years later..

*

The door to the spacious, sunlit office swung open, revealing a much older Joel stepping inside with a radiant smile that seemed to light up the room. Time had only refined his features, sharpening the chiseled lines of his jaw and cheekbones, while his skin retained a healthy, vibrant glow. His hair, a deep chestnut brown with subtle hints of golden undertones, was perfectly styled in a short, modern quiff that made him look both sophisticated and effortlessly handsome. His sharp, intelligent hazel eyes glimmered with triumph as if they held the secrets of a world he had conquered.

Joel’s black suit fit him flawlessly, the fabric hugging his lean, athletic frame like it had been tailored just for him. Beneath the suit, he wore a crisp white designer shirt, unbuttoned at the collar for a casual touch that hinted at his confidence. His polished black leather shoes clicked against the floor as he stepped further inside, briefcase in hand, exuding an air of professionalism and charm.

As he placed the briefcase on his polished mahogany desk, Joel couldn't contain his excitement. He took off his suit jacket, revealing the perfectly pressed shirt underneath, and slung it over the chair near his desk with a triumphant flair. A victorious laugh escaped him as he rolled up his sleeves to his forearms, his movements energized and full of life.

“Another one in the bag,” he murmured to himself, his voice brimming with pride. He ran a hand through his impeccably styled hair and let out a contented sigh. Winning cases was always exhilarating, but this one had been particularly challenging — and the victory tasted sweeter because of it.

As he was mid-celebration, the door to his office creaked open once again. Standing there was a distinguished-looking man in his mid 50s, his salt-and-pepper hair combed back neatly. His tailored navy-blue three-piece suit spoke volumes of his class and status, complemented by a pale blue silk tie and a matching pocket square. His Italian leather shoes gleamed under the office lights, and a subtle yet expensive cologne filled the room as he stepped in.

His warm smile and the slight crow’s feet at the corners of his eyes added a touch of kindness to his otherwise commanding presence. This was Elijah Wilson, a name that commanded respect across the legal world — the owner of one of the most prestigious law firms in the country.

“Well, well, Joel,” Mr. Wilson began, his deep, charismatic voice filling the room. “I see someone’s already started celebrating another win.”

Joel turned to him, his smile widening as he quickly straightened up, giving a slight, respectful bow.

“Mr. Wilson,” he said, his tone laced with excitement, “you caught me red-handed. I can’t help it — this case was brutal. Honestly, there were moments I thought I’d lost it.”

Wilson let out a hearty laugh, stepping further into the office and clasping Joel’s shoulder.

“I’m not surprised in the least, Joel. In the two years you’ve worked here, I’ve yet to see you lose a single case. People always ask me why I think so highly of you. Days like this are why.”

Joel’s cheeks flushed with humility as he smiled back at the older man.

“That means the world coming from you, sir. I’m just... grateful to have had the opportunity to prove myself.”

Wilson nodded approvingly, his smile widening.

“Well, you’ve proven yourself more than enough. In fact, tonight calls for a real celebration. It’s my wife’s birthday, and we’re having a small dinner at our home. I’d like you to join us. She’s quite fond of you, you know, and she’d be thrilled to see you there.”

Joel’s eyes lit up with genuine warmth.

“I wouldn’t miss it for the world, sir. Mrs. Wilson is like a mother to me. She’s always been so wonderful.”

Wilson’s smile softened at Joel’s words.

“That’s what she says about you too. She’s going to be delighted. I’ll see you tonight, then.”

With a wave, Wilson turned and left the office, leaving Joel standing there, still grinning from ear to ear. He let out a joyful laugh, spinning his chair around before dropping into it with an exaggerated sigh of happiness. He rested his head against the chair’s back, staring at the ceiling with a smile that seemed permanently etched onto his face.

“Jack’s going to flip when he hears about this,” Joel said to himself, his voice filled with excitement.

He couldn’t wait to call his brother, to share the news of yet another victory, and to tell him about the invitation to dinner. Life had come a long way from the dark days he once knew, and at this moment, everything felt just right.

***

Joel bounded down the staircase, his face glowing with excitement. He wore a casual yet stylish ensemble, black shorts that highlighted his toned legs and a white vest that clung to his chest and shoulders, showcasing his lean, muscular build. His movements were light and carefree, his energy infectious.

The modern decor of his home—a spacious three-bedroom apartment adorned with sleek, contemporary furniture and tasteful decor—was a daily reminder of how far he’d come. The sunlight streaming through the large windows highlighted the polished wood floors and the vibrant artwork adorning the walls. Joel glanced at his sleek car parked outside through the window, silently appreciating it as one of his many hard-earned treasures.

Reaching the bottom of the staircase, Joel heard the creak of the front door opening. He turned, and his face broke into an even wider smile at the sight of the man stepping inside. Jack.

Jack was undeniably stunning, exuding a youthful charm and confidence. His dark, wavy hair was effortlessly styled, with the strands at the top swept to the side in a messy yet intentional look. His sharp jawline framed his face perfectly, accentuated by a faint stubble that gave him a rugged edge. He wore a fitted burgundy shirt that hugged his athletic physique, the fabric hinting at the sculpted body beneath. The sleeves were rolled up to his elbows, revealing beautiful, sexy forearms, and he paired the shirt with slim-fit black jeans and polished leather boots that added a sophisticated flair to his casual look. A silver chain glinted around his neck, completing the ensemble.

“Jack!” Joel screamed like a delighted child, dropping everything and rushing toward his brother. He threw his arms around him, squeezing him tightly.

Jack laughed, returning the hug with equal enthusiasm, holding his brother in a moment of shared joy.

“Hey, Joel! Missed me already?” he teased.

Joel pulled back just enough to look at him, still grinning. “You wouldn’t believe the day I’ve had! I just won another case—one of the toughest ones yet!”

Jack gasped, his face lighting up.

“Are you kidding me? Of course, you won! I never doubted it for a second.” He raised an eyebrow mischievously. “So, what’s the big reward this time? Another car? A new house? Or maybe just stacks of cash to keep in your vault?”

Joel burst out laughing, shaking his head.

“None of that, actually. Mr. Wilson invited me over for his wife’s birthday dinner tonight.”

Jack rolled his eyes dramatically. “That’s it? Dinner? Come on, Joel, you’re probably making billions for that firm. They should be throwing you a parade!”

Joel chuckled, crossing his arms. “Hey, I’m honored to be invited. Besides, I’m already one of the highest-paid lawyers at the firm, and I’ve only been there two years. I think I’m doing just fine.”

Jack gave him a knowing look, arching his eyebrow.

“Yeah, yeah, Mr. Humble. But don’t act like you don’t deserve even more.”

Joel raised his hands in surrender, still laughing.

“Fine, fine. You win. Now, what about you? What’s got you all dressed up and glowing today?”

Jack’s expression shifted, a sly grin spreading across his face. He leaned closer to Joel, grabbing his arm. “Oh, I have some amazing news for you.”

Joel tilted his head, intrigued. “What is it?”

Jack blushed slightly, his excitement bubbling over.

“I met the most handsome man I’ve ever seen in my life.”

Joel’s smile faltered, and he let out a sigh, shaking his head.

“Jack, you say that about every guy you meet.”

Jack groaned, throwing his head back dramatically.

“No, no, this time I mean it! Joel, you don’t understand. He’s not just handsome—he’s perfect. Rich, too. And his smile? Oh my God, it’s like he was sculpted by angels.” Jack’s voice turned dreamy, and he bit his lip. “His teeth were flawless, his lips... oh, his lips. I was so tempted to devour him with kisses right then and there.”

Joel laughed, playfully swatting his brother’s arm. “You’re such a whore.”

Jack laughed with him, raising a hand in mock defense. “Excuse me! I can’t help it if I have good taste.”

Joel rolled his eyes, raising his hands in surrender again.

“Alright, alright. Where is this Prince Charming you’re talking about? Don’t tell me you scared him off.”

Jack’s smile faltered slightly, and he let out a dramatic sigh.

“Well, he didn’t exactly pay me any attention.”

Joel’s jaw dropped in mock disbelief. “Wait—the Jack? The man who can charm anyone? You got ignored?”

Jack grinned slyly, recovering quickly. “Oh, he’s just playing hard to get. But trust me, Joel, it’s only a matter of time. I’ll have him in my arms... and as my husband.”

Joel laughed, shaking his head.

“Good luck with that. But as for me, I’ve got things to do upstairs.”

Jack’s eyes narrowed suspiciously, and he followed Joel as he turned to head back up the staircase.

“Oh, come on. You’re just making excuses so you don’t have to hear more about my dream man.”

Joel laughed, picking up his pace as Jack trailed behind him. “Exactly. Now shoo!”

The brothers’ laughter echoed through the house, their playful banter filling the air with warmth and love. Despite their teasing, their bond was unshakable, and moments like these reminded Joel of how much he cherished having Jack in his life.

***

Joel raised his glass with a warm smile, clinking it gently against those of Mr. Wilson and his wife. The soft chime of glass meeting glass echoed in the elegant dining room.

“To another wonderful year for you, Mrs. Wilson,” Joel said, his voice carrying genuine affection. “And thank you for inviting me to celebrate with you.”

Mrs. Wilson smiled graciously, her radiance undeniable. She was a vision of timeless beauty, her age only adding to her elegance. Her dark auburn hair was swept into a delicate chignon, with soft curls framing her heart-shaped face. Her hazel eyes sparkled warmly beneath the light of the chandelier, and her skin glowed with a natural, healthy flush. She wore a deep emerald gown that accentuated her graceful figure, adorned with a delicate string of pearls around her neck and matching earrings. Her laughter was soft and melodic as she raised her glass.

“We’re so glad you could join us, Joel,” she said. “You’ve been such a joy to have in the firm and in our lives. It wouldn’t feel right without you here tonight.”

Joel gave her a modest smile, setting his glass down. His gaze shifted curiously, and he tilted his head.

“Thank you, Mrs. Wilson. You’re far too kind. But speaking of family...” He leaned slightly forward, his tone laced with curiosity. “I heard you and Mr. Wilson have a son. I was wondering—he isn’t around tonight?”

The room grew noticeably still. Both Mr. Wilson and his wife exchanged a hesitant glance, their smiles faltering ever so slightly. Joel immediately noticed the shift in the atmosphere and straightened in his chair, unsure if he had overstepped.

Mrs. Wilson’s smile returned, though it lacked the same brightness as before. She glanced at her husband before speaking, her tone soft but tinged with sadness.

“Yes, we do have a son. His name is Adrian.”

Joel nodded, a slight smile tugging at his lips.

“Adrian. That’s a strong name. Is he... not here?”

Mr. Wilson sighed deeply, rubbing the back of his neck. He looked down at his glass for a moment before meeting Joel’s gaze.

“Adrian... he’s here. He’s staying with us for a while, but...” He trailed off, clearly struggling to find the right words.

Mrs. Wilson placed a comforting hand on her husband’s arm and continued.

“He’s... not speaking to us, Joel. He’s been upset with us for quite some time now.”

Joel’s brow furrowed in concern.

“Upset? May I ask why?”

Mr. Wilson’s expression was heavy with regret as he leaned back in his chair.

“Adrian and I... we had a falling out a few years ago. He felt like I pushed him too hard, expected too much from him. He said I was trying to mold him into someone he didn’t want to be.”

Mrs. Wilson’s eyes glistened with unshed tears as she added, “And when he finally tried to stand up for himself, we didn’t handle it well. We thought we were helping, guiding him, but instead, we ended up alienating him. He left, and we didn’t hear from him for 3 years.” She paused, her voice trembling slightly. “He only came back recently, but things are still... strained.”

Joel’s heart ached for the couple. He could see the genuine remorse in their expressions, the weight of their regret. He leaned forward slightly, his voice gentle.

“I’m so sorry to hear that. It sounds like you’ve both been through a lot. But maybe... maybe he just needs someone to bridge the gap.”

The couple exchanged another glance, this time filled with hesitation.

“Joel,” Mr. Wilson began cautiously, “Adrian doesn’t take well to strangers. I’m not sure—”

“I’d like to try,” Joel interrupted softly but firmly. “Sometimes, it’s easier to open up to someone who isn’t directly involved. If you don’t mind, I could try talking to him. Maybe it won’t make a difference, but it’s worth a shot.”

Mrs. Wilson’s hand tightened slightly on her husband’s arm, her eyes hopeful but wary.

“Do you really think you could get through to him?” she asked, her voice almost a whisper.

Joel nodded with a reassuring smile.

“I can’t promise anything, but I’ll do my best. I owe so much to both of you. If there’s even a small chance I can help, I’d like to try.”

After a long moment of deliberation, Mr. Wilson sighed and gave a reluctant nod. “Alright, Joel. If you’re willing to try, I won’t stop you. He’s in his room upstairs, second door on the right. It’s where he spends most of his time when he’s here.”

Mrs. Wilson reached out, placing a hand on Joel’s.

“Thank you,” she said earnestly. “It means so much to us that you’d even try.”

Joel gave her hand a gentle squeeze.

“I’ll do my best. Wish me luck.”

With that, Joel stood, straightened his suit jacket, and headed toward the staircase, his heart beating a little faster. He didn’t know what to expect, but he was determined to try and make a difference—for Adrian, for the Wilsons, and for the bond they so clearly wanted to repair.

***

Joel climbed the stairs with a sense of purpose, his footsteps echoing softly against the polished wood. He followed the directions to Adrian’s room, his heart racing with both anticipation and uncertainty. As he approached, the sound of loud, animated chatter and explosions from a game blaring out of a large screen greeted him, accompanied by the occasional low mutter of frustration.

The door to the room was wide open, revealing a spacious, modern interior with muted gray walls, sleek black furniture, and an enormous TV screen mounted on the wall. Joel paused at the threshold, taking in the scene before him.

Adrian stood with his back to the door, seemingly unaware of Joel’s presence. He was tall—at least a few inches taller than Joel—and his broad shoulders and well-built frame filled out the white vest and black cargo shorts he wore effortlessly. His movements were swift and confident as he played, his focus entirely on the game.

Joel took a deep breath, steeling himself. He stepped cautiously into the room, his leather shoes barely making a sound on the plush carpet.

“Ahem,” Joel cleared his throat softly, attempting to get the man’s attention.

Adrian didn’t respond, his attention glued to the screen.

Joel tried again, this time louder.

“Ahem!”

Still nothing.

Frustration and a touch of nervousness crept in. Joel took another breath and stepped closer, hesitating briefly before reaching out to gently touch Adrian’s shoulder.

The reaction was immediate. Adrian startled, nearly dropping the controller as he whipped around to face Joel. His sharp, handsome features came into full view—strong, defined cheekbones, a chiseled jawline adorned with a neatly trimmed beard, and deep-set hazel eyes that glinted with a mix of annoyance and surprise. His short black hair was cut close on the sides and slightly longer on top, tousled in a way that gave him an effortlessly rugged look. Even in his startled state, he exuded a commanding presence.

“Who the hell are you?” Adrian asked, his voice low and edged with irritation. “And what are you doing in my room?”

Joel held up his hands in a placating gesture, his sheepish smile betraying his nervousness.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to startle you. My name is Joel. I’m a lawyer in your father’s firm.”

Adrian’s expression darkened as he took a step closer, his towering frame making Joel feel uncharacteristically small.

“That still doesn’t explain what the hell you’re doing in my room,” he snapped. “You’ve got ten seconds to get the fuck out before I make you.”

Joel swallowed hard but stood his ground, his voice steady despite the tension.

“I’d rather use those ten seconds to talk to you.”

Adrian’s frown deepened, and he crossed his arms over his chest.

“Talk to me? About what?”

Joel hesitated but then pressed on.

“It’s your mother’s birthday. She’s downstairs, celebrating with your father. I thought maybe... you’d want to come down, wish her a happy birthday, maybe give her a kiss on the cheek. It would mean a lot to her.”

Adrian let out a bitter chuckle, shaking his head. “You barged into my room to tell me that nonsense?” His voice dripped with sarcasm. “I don’t think so.”

Joel’s brow furrowed, his tone softening.

“You seem so upset with your parents. Why? Maybe…”

Adrian cut him off, his voice rising with anger.

“Why? Why don’t you ask the people who sent you here? Better yet, let me ask you something—are you happy with your parents? Are they happy with you?”

Joel faltered, the weight of Adrian’s words sinking in. He took a shaky breath, his voice low and trembling.

Joel stood firm, his gaze steady despite the storm brewing in Adrian’s eyes. The silence between them was heavy, filled with unspoken pain. Adrian shifted his weight, his arms crossing defensively over his chest. He didn’t say anything, but his sharp glare was enough to challenge Joel.

Joel took another cautious step forward, his voice soft but unwavering.

“Adrian, I know I’m a stranger barging into your space, and I can’t even begin to understand what’s going on between you and your parents. But I can see the way they look when they talk about you. They miss you.”

Adrian scoffed, his laugh bitter and hollow.

“Miss me? That’s rich. If they miss me so much, why don’t they tell me themselves? Why send you to do their dirty work?”

Joel blinked, thrown off for a moment.

“Maybe they don’t know how to reach you. Maybe they’re scared they’ll push you further away.”

“Bullshit,” Adrian snapped, his voice rising. His hands dropped to his sides, balling into fists. “They don’t get to play the victims here. They’re the ones who drove me away! Do you have any idea what it feels like to be the son they’re ashamed of? The one who can’t meet their high and mighty standards?”

Joel’s heart clenched at the venom in Adrian’s voice. He could feel the weight of years of resentment and hurt spilling out, each word like a dagger aimed at unseen wounds.

“I don’t know what they did,” Joel said carefully, “but I can see how much it’s hurting you. And I know it’s not easy to let go of that kind of pain.”

Adrian’s lips curled into a mocking smile, but his eyes glistened with unshed tears.

“You don’t know anything about me.”

“You’re right,” Joel admitted, his voice softening even more. “I don’t know what it’s like to walk in your shoes. But I know what it’s like to feel alone. To feel like the world has turned its back on you.”

Adrian opened his mouth to retort, but Joel pressed on, his voice trembling with emotion.

“When my parents died, I felt like I’d lost everything. I had no one to turn to. I had to grow up fast, take care of my brother, and pretend I had it all together when I was falling apart inside.”

Adrian’s expression wavered, the tension in his shoulders loosening as he listened.

“I’d give anything—anything—to have parents to fight with, to disappoint, even to make mistakes with,” Joel continued, his voice breaking. “I’d give anything just to have them back for one more day. So when I see someone like you, who still has that, it makes me wonder... do you realize what you have? Even if it’s messy and complicated, it’s still family.”

Adrian turned away, rubbing the back of his neck.

“You think it’s that simple? Just talk to them and suddenly everything’s fine?”

“No,” Joel said firmly. “It’s not that simple. And I’m not saying it’ll fix everything. But it’s a step. A chance to say the things you might not get to say later. I know they’re not perfect—no one is—but they love you, Adrian. I saw it in their eyes when they talked about you. They’re hurting too.”

Adrian let out a shaky breath, his voice quieter now. “You don’t know what they did.”

“Then tell me,” Joel urged. “Help me understand.”

Adrian hesitated, his jaw tightening. He looked at Joel for a long moment, as if weighing whether or not to let him in. Finally, he spoke, his voice low and raw. “They wanted me to follow this path they had planned for me—law school, the family business, all of it. But I didn’t want that. I wanted to do something different, something that made me happy. And when I told them that... they made it clear I was a disappointment.”

Joel’s chest ached at the pain laced in Adrian’s words. “So you walked away?”

Adrian nodded, his gaze fixed on the floor. “I had to. I couldn’t keep pretending to be someone I’m not. But even now, it’s like... like I’m not enough for them.”

Joel took a step closer, his voice soft but insistent. “Adrian, you’re enough. Just as you are. And maybe they didn’t handle things the right way, but that doesn’t mean they don’t care. It doesn’t mean they don’t want you back.”

Adrian looked up, his eyes glistening. For a moment, the walls he’d built around himself seemed to crumble. “You really think they care?”

“I don’t just think it,” Joel said. “I know it. And I’m not saying you have to forgive them today or even tomorrow. But don’t let the hurt keep you from trying. You might regret it later if you don’t.”

Adrian stared at him, his expression unreadable. Finally, he let out a long sigh and nodded, though his face was still lined with uncertainty. “I’ll... think about it.”

Joel smiled, relief washing over him. “That’s all I’m asking. Just think about it.”

For the first time since their conversation began, Adrian’s lips curved into a faint smile. “You’re a pain in the ass, you know that?”

Joel chuckled, the tension in the room easing slightly. “I’ve been told that before.”

Adrian shook his head, a small laugh escaping him. “Alright, lawyer boy. You win—for now.”

Joel smiled and took a deep breath, feeling like he’d done something nice.

***

The quietness in the living room was interrupted by a clear, deep voice that rang out over the light chatter.

“Happy birthday, Mom.”

Mr. and Mrs. Wilson turned simultaneously toward the voice, their eyes widening in disbelief. Standing near the entrance, just a few steps away from Joel, was their son, Adrian. His tall frame was illuminated by the soft glow of the room’s chandelier, and his expression was hesitant, almost unsure.

Mrs. Wilson blinked, as if questioning whether what she was seeing was real. Her lips parted in surprise, her perfectly made-up face betraying the mix of emotions that suddenly overwhelmed her.

“Adrian?” she said, her voice trembling.

Adrian took a tentative step forward, his hands shoved into the pockets of his cargo shorts.

“Yeah, Mom,” he said softly, glancing at Joel briefly before focusing back on his mother. “Happy birthday.”

For a moment, there was silence. It was as if time had stopped. Then, a shaky laugh escaped Mrs. Wilson’s lips, her eyes quickly filling with tears.

“Oh my God… Adrian!” she exclaimed, covering her mouth with her hands. She turned to her husband, who looked equally stunned, his face betraying both shock and a quiet, restrained hope.

“Son…” Mr. Wilson began, his deep voice faltering for the first time that night. He stared at Adrian, as though trying to confirm it was really him standing there.

Adrian shifted on his feet, awkward under their intense gazes.

“What? You guys told me to come downstairs, didn’t you?” He attempted a small smirk, though the emotion in his eyes betrayed how deeply this moment was affecting him.

Mrs. Wilson couldn’t hold back any longer. She rushed forward, her heels clicking against the marble floor, and threw her arms around Adrian.

“You’re here,” she whispered, her voice breaking as she clung to him. “You’re really here.”

Adrian stiffened slightly at first, caught off guard by the intensity of her embrace, but then he relaxed, wrapping his strong arms around her.

“Yeah, Mom,” he murmured, his voice softer now. “I’m here.”

Mr. Wilson joined them, placing a hand on Adrian’s shoulder before pulling him into a tight hug. The usually stoic man’s eyes were misty, his voice thick with emotion as he said, “We missed you, son.”

Joel stood to the side, watching the scene unfold. He tried to ignore the lump forming in his throat as he saw the Wilsons reunited. The love and relief on their faces were palpable, and for a fleeting moment, Joel allowed himself to imagine what it would feel like to be in Adrian’s shoes—to have parents to return to, to feel their arms around him, to hear their voices filled with love and pride. But that wasn’t his reality, and it never would be.

Mrs. Wilson pulled back slightly, holding Adrian’s face in her hands. “You have no idea how much this means to me,” she said, her voice trembling. “I’ve prayed for this moment every single day.”

Adrian gave her a small, sheepish smile. “You don’t have to get all dramatic, Mom.”

“I can’t help it,” she replied, laughing through her tears. “You’re my son. I’ve missed you so much.”

Mr. Wilson cleared his throat, his hand still resting on Adrian’s shoulder.

“We both have. And we’re sorry, son. For everything. For making you feel like you had to stay away.”

Adrian looked at his father, his jaw tightening slightly.

“It wasn’t just me staying away, Dad. It was both of us, wasn’t it?”

Mr. Wilson nodded, his expression filled with regret.

“You’re right. And I’m sorry for that too.”

Joel shifted uncomfortably, feeling like an intruder in this deeply personal moment. He took a step back, intending to give them space, but Mrs. Wilson turned to him, her eyes brimming with gratitude.

“Joel,” she said, her voice full of warmth. “Thank you. I don’t know what you said to him, but… thank you.”

Joel smiled, shaking his head modestly.

“I didn’t do much. I just… pointed out what was already there.”

Adrian rolled his eyes playfully.

“Don’t give him too much credit, Mom. He’s already got a big enough head.”

Joel chuckled. “Says the guy who made me work to get you out of that room.”

Mrs. Wilson laughed, wiping her tears. “Whatever it was, it worked. And I’ll always be grateful for it.”

Joel nodded, his smile softening as he watched the Wilsons embrace Adrian once more. As the three of them shared more quiet words, Joel’s gaze lingered on them. A pang of longing settled deep in his chest. This was what family was supposed to look like—imperfect, messy, but full of love. He had been too young to appreciate it when he had it, and now it was gone.

Adrian’s gaze lingered on Joel for a moment longer before he turned back to his parents.

“So, Mom, what’s for dinner? I’m starving.”

Mrs. Wilson laughed through her tears, a sound so filled with joy that it seemed to brighten the entire room.

“I’ll make you anything you want, sweetheart.”

Joel stepped back slightly, giving the family their space while still admiring the scene before him. His heart ached for what he’d lost, but for now, he found solace in knowing he had played a small part in helping someone else find their way back to the love they deserved.

To be continued…