Lorna and Jason arrived at Michael's penthouse on a calm Friday night. Amidst the soft instrumental music that drifted through the air, the city lights blinked like stars against the glass windows. With a bag slung over his shoulder, Jason hurried forward, his excitement nearly lifting him off the ground.
With a shout, he hurried down the hall and called the room with the moon lamp.
Michael laughed. "He remembers everything."
Lorna entered more slowly, looking around the room. The temperature was warm. not only in appearance but also in emotion. A soccer ball resting next to the couch, framed drawings on the wall, and a Lego set on the shelf were some of the hints of life that had softened the minimalist sleekness she remembered.
Michael looked at her. "When he started to visit more frequently, I started making changes. made the place... his own as well."
Lorna gave a nod. "Now it feels like home."
After grinning, he grabbed her bag. "Come on. I'll lead you to the visitor's room."
The weekend went smoothly.
Jason requested pancakes for breakfast on Saturday, and they watched cartoons on the floor of the living room. Lorna made coffee while Michael cooked. It had a homey feel. effortless.
They went to the planetarium later that day. Jason and Michael walked forward, discussing constellations with their heads hunched over the brochure. Following in their wake, Lorna watched them with a heartbeat she hadn't experienced in years.
Not only did they share a biological resemblance, but they also shared a soul. Michael was aware of Jason's favorite snacks, when he needed a break, and the precise tone to use when Jason was becoming overstimulated. He had patience.was present and different.
Lorna watched as Michael tucked Jason in that evening while she stood in the doorway of his room.
Do you want to read the following chapter? Michael enquired.
Jason pulled the book onto his lap and nodded.
Lorna leaned quietly against the doorframe as Michael started reading in a low, animated voice. She wasn't sure if the pain in her eyes was from sadness or something more akin to relief.
She joined Michael on the balcony after Jason fell asleep. The sky above the city was hazy with stars, and the air was clear.
She remarked, "You've made him a lovely home."
Michael curled his fingers around his coffee mug and looked down. "I had to. For him. For myself.
She gave him a look. "It is evident."
After a brief period of silence, Michael continued to speak. You know, it used to be about control. The profession. The cash. The picture. I believed those qualities would help me be a good father.
Gently, she stated, "They don't."
He gave a nod. However, presence does. and tranquility. Before I lost you, I was unaware of that.
Looking inside the apartment, Lorna took in the soft lamplight, the book shadows, and the sound of laughter that had filled the walls earlier in the day. She didn't answer verbally. She just placed her hand on the railing over his.
Nothing was promised at that moment.
However, everything was acknowledged.