Chapter 11
The following week brought a fresh wave of challenges, but also moments of hope that Frank had never imagined he would experience.
Emma's skepticism lingered, but it was clear that she was observing Frank more closely than before. And Frank could sense her walls slowly starting to crumble, albeit just a little at a time.
Frank's routine had shifted entirely. His schedule, once meticulously planned with meetings and business calls, now included things like picking Liam up from school, taking him to the park, and helping him with his homework. The shift was jarring at first, but Frank welcomed the challenge.
He had never truly understood what it meant to be a father what it meant to show up day after day, to be consistent in your love and care. But now, he was beginning to learn.
That afternoon, after a long day at the office, Frank found himself outside Emma's apartment once more. His heart raced in anticipation of seeing Liam, but more so because of the quiet hope that perhaps Emma was finally starting to trust him.
When Emma opened the door, her face was unreadable as always, but her eyes seemed softer.
"You're early," she remarked, stepping aside to let him in.
"I couldn't wait to see him," Frank replied, smiling. "Is he around?"
Emma nodded, though her lips stayed tight. "He's in his room. But you're going to have to get used to the fact that this isn't going to be smooth sailing. Trust isn't given—it's earned, Frank."
Frank nodded, his resolve firming. He wasn't about to back down now. "I know, Emma. I'm not asking for immediate trust. Just… a chance to show that I can be here for him."
As he entered Liam's room, he was greeted with the sight of his son's back as he concentrated on a puzzle. Frank's heart warmed at the sight. Over the past few weeks, they had formed a quiet bond no grand gestures, no spectacular displays, just small moments shared together.
"Hey, buddy," Frank called gently, approaching Liam.
Liam looked up, his face lighting up when he saw Frank. "You're back!"
"I promised I would be, didn't I?" Frank replied, sitting beside him on the floor.
Liam nodded enthusiastically and then turned his attention back to the puzzle. "I can't figure this part out," he said, holding up a piece.
Frank smiled, taking the piece in his hand and examining it. "You're doing great. Let me see if I can help."
The two of them worked in silence for a while, fitting the pieces together, each one falling into place with quiet satisfaction. Frank found himself completely engrossed in the task, enjoying the simplicity of just being with Liam. It felt like the most normal thing in the world.
As the evening wore on, Emma joined them in the living room. She watched quietly as Frank and Liam continued to work together. There was a certain tenderness in the way Frank interacted with Liam no rushing, no impatience. Frank had become a father in ways he hadn't anticipated.
Eventually, Liam yawned, rubbing his eyes.
"I think it's time for bed," Emma said, standing up. "We've got an early morning tomorrow."
Frank stood as well, his heart sinking at the thought of leaving. But he knew that these small moments were building something important.
"Alright, little man," Frank said softly. "I'll be back tomorrow. Sleep well."
Liam gave him a tired but genuine smile. "Good night, Dad."
The words hit Frank like a wave, and he found himself struggling to suppress the overwhelming emotion that surged within him. The road ahead would be long, but hearing those words those simple, innocent words was worth every second.
"Good night, Liam," Frank said hoarsely, his throat tightening.
As Frank made his way to the door, Emma followed him into the hallway. Her expression was soft, but still guarded.
"You're doing well," Emma said quietly. "But don't think it's enough yet. I still have my doubts."
Frank nodded. "I understand. And I'm not asking you to change overnight, Emma. I know trust is earned."
Emma sighed, crossing her arms. "I just don't want him to get hurt. He's been through enough already."
Frank's heart ached at the concern in her voice. He had never fully understood Emma's protectiveness, but now, standing in the hallway with her, he realized just how much she had been through alone. She had raised Liam on her own for so long, and the idea of someone else stepping in was understandably terrifying.
"I won't let him get hurt," Frank said, his voice steady. "I'm not going anywhere."
Emma gave him a searching look, and for a brief moment, Frank saw a flicker of something soft in her eyes. Hope, maybe. Or just the possibility of it.
"I want to believe you," she whispered. "But it's going to take time."
"I'm in it for the long haul," Frank assured her, his resolve stronger than ever.
Emma nodded, though the uncertainty never quite left her eyes. "We'll see, Frank. We'll see."
As Frank left the apartment, he couldn't shake the feeling that the hardest part was yet to come. Earning Emma's trust was a monumental task, but he was willing to do whatever it took. For Liam. For Emma.
He couldn't change the past, but he had the power to shape their future. And he would not let this opportunity slip through his fingers.