CATHERINE
This was the best birthday Esme ever had. I just knew it.
It was joyous, and she wasn't alone this time; she was with family and people who loved her like she hung the moon.
Ares ordered her a chocolate tower cake, and Athena's gifts were filled with beautiful gowns and shoes that made her seem like a princess. Gramps and Granny sang happy birthday, and everything else was just… magical.
I have never heard her laugh so much. Her smile never ceased, either, and dinner was perfect.
I stroked the top of Esme's head gently, my smile yet to fade away. I'm sorry it took me this long, sweetie. I'm glad now you get to experience this joy.
I kissed her forehead and got off the bed. The attic had been cleared out and transformed into a room just for Esme.
This place was once filled with memories, and Gramps took a big step to free it up for new ones. After all these years of silence, we finally took that leap.
I was happy that we could finally heal.
"Mommy?"
