I nodded slowly. “I think Jennifer’s just being protective. She doesn’t really know what to expect yet. When she told me not to trust you… it really got to me.”
Richard’s expression turned earnest. “She’s sensitive. Still trying to find her footing. We just have to make sure she feels safe and loved. All three of us.”
The next morning, I watched as Richard patiently helped Jennifer choose her cereal. She barely looked up, still quiet, still cautious—but I could see it, just slightly… trust beginning to build.
I joined them at the table, resting my hand gently on Jennifer’s shoulder. She looked up at me, calm now, and a small smile slowly formed on her face—as if some unspoken worry inside her had finally begun to fade.
