Michael sat frozen. Each word pierced him. He realized, with devastating clarity, that he had thrown away the best thing in his life.

After the event, he tried to approach her.

“Claire,” he stammered, “I didn’t know you would… I never thought you could—”

She stopped him with a calm smile. “No, Michael. You never thought I would. But I did. And I will keep doing it—for him, for me, for the life I deserve.”

Her gaze drifted to Oliver, who giggled in Daniel’s arms. The picture of love, family, and second chances.