Chapter 5 - THE CHRISTMAS TRUCE
The party was effectively over, but the silence remained. The guests had retreated, the staff had been sent home, and the family was left in the wreckage of the night.
Claire sat in the study, a glass of water in her hand. Ethan sat across from her, Noah sleeping soundly in a bassinet Claire had demanded they bring down.
“I quit,” Ethan said.
Claire looked up, startled. “What?”
“I quit. I’m stepping down as CEO. I’m taking a leave of absence.”
“That won’t fix the last seven months, Ethan.”
“I know,” he said, looking at the baby. “But I’m not leaving again. I’ve bought the house next to yours in Seattle. I’ve already moved my personal belongings.”
Claire laughed, a sharp, cynical sound. “You think you can just move in? You think you can just decide to be a father now?”
“No,” Ethan said. “I think I have to earn it. And if it takes years, then that’s what I’ll do. But I’m not letting you go back to that apartment. And I’m not letting Noah grow up without knowing his father.”
May you like
He reached across the table, not to touch her, but to lay his hand near hers.
“I don't expect forgiveness tonight, Claire. I don't even expect you to let me stay here. But I’m going to Seattle tomorrow. And I’m going to be there, whether you want me to be or not. I’m going to learn how to be a father. Even if I have to learn it from the porch.”
