The playground, where Jason ran with boundless energy and his laughter echoed throughout the air, was bathed in a warm glow as the sunlight filtered through the trees in the peaceful area of the park. Perched on a nearby bench, Michael watched his son with a quiet, astonished wonder he never thought he would experience.
Jason waved as he looked over. "Look at me, Dad!"
The word made Michael's heart skip a beat. Dad. Still, it seemed unreal.
He smiled and called back, "I'm watching, buddy!" as Jason defiantly ascended the jungle gym.
Michael sat next to Henry Whitlock, who came with two coffees and gave one to him. "You appear to have recently found a new planet."
With his gaze fixed on Jason, Michael nodded. "I have, in a sense."
Henry looked after him. "You two are becoming closer. It's gorgeous, dude.
Michael let out a slow breath. "It's all I didn't realize I needed." It's complicated, though. Lorna appears to be aloof. Weary. As if she were merely performing the rituals.
Henry sipped thoughtfully. "Is Lucas still involved?"
Michael gave a nod. Seldom. However, something is strange. At the dinner, I could see it in her eyes. She's not happy.
Henry's eyebrows went up. "Are you certain it's not your heart speaking?"
"I'm not attempting to meddle," Michael hurriedly stated. "I simply—she is my child's mother. I'm concerned. However, I don't want to press the issue or worsen it."
Henry gave him a prolonged glance. Then refrain from pushing. Simply be present. Remain in the moment. Observe the lines, even if it means your death. She must make the decision if she ever wishes to betray them once more.
Michael nodded and sighed. "I understand."
Jason rushed up at that moment, his eyes sparkling and his cheeks flushed.
"Come play tag with me, Dad!"
Michael ruffled his hair and stood up. "You're on."
Henry sat on the bench and silently hoped that life would give people second chances occasionally as Michael ran after Jason, gasping and laughing.
And maybe, just maybe, Michael Hudson was learning how to earn his.