Months later, Derek’s criminal case was resolved.
“I can’t make him behave. But I can stop making it easier for him not to.”
Linda looked at me.
“I’m not asking you to forgive me.”
“Good,” I replied. “Because I’m not ready to.”
She nodded.
After that, I didn’t discuss the case with Derek.
Months later, Derek’s criminal case was resolved, and the court ordered restitution. Denise also helped settle the remaining civil claim. Linda paid an agreed amount toward the children’s losses, and my ex-husband eventually moved out of her house after she took the necessary legal steps.
After that, I didn’t discuss the case with Derek. Our communication stayed focused on the children and their parenting schedule.
The following October, Lucy asked if we could carve pumpkins again.
Mason helped her scoop out the seeds while Harper made new cardboard gravestones for the lawn.
“Of course.”
“Can mine have a scary face this time?”
