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?”

question back on her. “Do

Uncle, will you protect Mommy?” She blinked her big eyes earnestly, looking at Atlas, waiting for his

expected her to ask such a question. I couldn’t fathom what was going on in

too, my little princess!” Atlas’s reply was

falling asleep. As I nestled into Atlas’s embrace, he said, “You’ve

toys.” I reminded him. I knew that

expensive.

should be raised in comfort!” He pinched my

finally asked,

didn’t answer immediately, and it was a while before he responded, “I don’t know. I just like

feels like home.”

the hopes deep within me. Suddenly, I thought

was a sensitive topic for him.

+15 BONUS

I said, “It would be wonderful if things could stay like this forever. Worry–free, just peacefully living