Beyond the Divorce

Chapter 204 Happiness Is Simple

During dinner, Ava chatted away, expertly buttering up Atlas. “Uncle Atlas is the best!”

Atlas was delighted and indulgent. “Why is that?”

“You brought Barbie dolls. Now I have a family! There’s a Barbie mommy and two Barbie sisters!” She looked at Atlas. “They’re a family, and I don’t want Barbie Daddy. He’s mean! I want you, not Daddy!”

Atlas was charmed, showing no signs of minding her words. He even fed her.

After the meal, I cleaned up as he and Ava played in the living room. I had never imagined he would get along so well with her, speaking to her in a patient and child–friendly manner.

While playing, Ava suddenly remembered something. She hurried over to Atlas, pulling a piece of candy from her pocket. With great solemnity, she unwrapped it and offered it to Atlas. In her sweet voice, she said, “This is my repayment! Mommy says we should repay kindness!”

That night, she played until very late. I bathed her and put her to bed. Reluctantly, she asked, “Uncle Atlas, will you come again tomorrow?”

turned the question back on her. “Do

I want you to visit every day. Uncle, will you protect Mommy?” She blinked her

couldn’t fathom what was going on in her little head.

my little princess!”

for a long time before finally falling asleep. As I nestled into Atlas’s embrace, he

reminded him. I knew

expensive.

be raised in comfort!” He pinched my nose. “You don’t understand!”

and finally asked, “Do you

a while before he

feels like

in me. They touched on the hopes deep within me. Suddenly, I thought of his parents and how they had both passed

had mentioned that it was a sensitive topic for

+15 BONUS

Softly, I said, “It would be wonderful if things could stay like