Two weeks later, they returned to England, stepping into their newly purchased townhouse in London. It was meant to be their fresh start, the beginning of their married life together.
Yet, as Alexander walked through the halls, he couldn't help but think ahead—far ahead.
To Edward.
His son.
A boy who had once idolized him but had grown into a teenager who barely spoke to him. A boy Alexander had missed school plays for, forgotten birthdays, and dismissed with a distracted "we'll talk later."
Later had never come.
Alexander clenched his fists. Edward wasn't even born yet, but I won't fail him this time.
Eleanor's voice pulled him from his thoughts. "You're quiet. What are you thinking about?"
He turned to her, debating how much to reveal. "Our future," he said truthfully. "Our family."
Her face softened. "I'd like a family."
He exhaled slowly. "Then let's build one together. And when the time comes, I want to be the kind of father who is present."
Eleanor reached for his hand, squeezing it gently. "You will be."
I have to be, Alexander thought.
Because this time, he would not let his son grow up believing his father loved work more than him.
This time, he would do better.