Love. Left. Behind.

Chapter 9

"Children are sacred beings."

Days Later

Looking around at the decorations and outdoor seating.

He couldn't wait until Suzie got to look at everything.

There was a mixture of the colors pink, purple, and green.

Which were Suzie's favorite colors. The table inside was decorated with pictures.

Of Suzie with her family and friends. Music played all throughout the house.

While food was being catered.

The room was filled with kids. Suzie had said she wanted to invite as many people as we could fit. She didn't want any kid to feel left out.

I was more happy and proud of her. For thinking that way.

And made sure to do just what she asked.

Which lead to today. Kids talking and laughing.

Having as much fun as they could be.

Suzie was dancing and truly enjoying her party.

After talking with Serena. We decided.

To tell Suzie about Serena being her mother after the party was over.

Serena has spent the last few days creating a present for Suzie to give to her.

I had no what she was making and couldn't wait for the reveal.

Serena also made the choice to begin therapy.

She would be starting in a few days. And I couldn't be more relieved for her.

She needed to sort through everything that happened with someone.

Who would be able to offer her the help she needed. And truly begin.

Her journey in healing.

I will continue to support her in every way possible.

My business is expanding. And I have been thinking about.

Where I see, things going next.

This decision has been one that I've been thinking about.

For months. And now I know that is the right thing to do.

I've never been more sure of anything then I am of this.

Gathering around the table.

The lights lowered. The talk and laughter quieted.

As the cake was brought out.

Candles lighting up the dark room.

Suzie is the center of the table.

In front of the cake.

Looking around as everyone sang.

Happy birthday to her.

A few minutes later.

The singing stopped.

And Suzie closed her eyes.

Blowing out her candles.

Smiling wide.

As she heard claps and cheers.

The lights turning back on.

While the cake was cut and pieces were served.

Awhile later.

Gifts began being given out.

One by one. Suzie took the gifts and cards.

That came with it.

Hugging each person.

That had given it to her.

Until there was one gift left.

The guests now gone.

Serena taking a breath.

As she walked out back into the living room.

With her hand in Nate's.

The two sitting down.

Next to each other.

As Nate called out to Suzie.

Who had gone in her bedroom.

And started looking over her presents.

At the sound of hearing her dad's voice.

She walked out of the room. Quickly.

Slowly down once she saw that he wasn't alone.

"Walking over to him.

Her eyes curious looking over the woman.

That was sitting next to her father.

Realizing she was familiar. But she couldn't place it.

Sitting in the empty chair. Next to the two adults.

Nate looked at her. Then looked back at Serena and began to speak.

"This woman is the same person I told you about years ago."

"There is a complicated and long story that goes a long with it."

"But for now all you need to know."

"Is that one thing."

Nate said.

Turning to Serena as she started to speak.

Tears welling up in her eyes.

As she locked eyes with Suzie.

"I'm your mom." Serena said. Softly.

Suzie looked up at her with surprise in her eyes.

Walking over and standing in front of her.

So, they were face to face.

"You came back."

"You remembered us and you do love us.'

Suzie said.

Touching her mom's face with her hand.

As she wrapped her tiny arms around her.

Holding on tightly to her.

Serena overcome with emotion.

Tears running her face.

While she spoke slowly.

"I love you."

"There has not been a day and a minute that has gone by."

"That I ever stopped loving you."

She said.

Closing her eyes.

Reopening them. To realize that Nate never left her side.

He just sat there quietly.

The beauty of the moment sink in.