Emily’s eyes filled.
“And still become better.”
For the first time, Emily reached across the space between their chairs and touched his hand.
Only for a moment.
But she did it.
The triplets turned one in Claire’s backyard.
There was no country club.
No chandeliers.
No elaborate cake.
Just a long folding table, homemade cupcakes, paper decorations, and three little girls wearing matching sun hats they repeatedly tried to remove.
Grace smashed frosting into her hair.
Lily fed most of hers to Mark.
Faith fell asleep halfway through the celebration with one hand gripping Margaret’s necklace.
Emily stood beneath the maple tree watching them.
Claire walked over.
“You look happy.”
Emily smiled.
“I am.”
“With him?”
Emily considered the question.
“With my life.”
Claire nodded approvingly.
“That’s a better answer.”
Mark was crouched beside Grace, trying to wipe frosting from her nose.
He looked up.
Their eyes met.
