Chapter 6: Her Happy Ending Begins

Later, I got busy with my internship. My dad tried to see us once.

He showed up at a coffee shop, looking lost and unsure. I watched from a distance, ready to step in if needed.

He saw my mom at a café, dressed smartly, translating for someone. She glowed, just like when they’d first met.

She laughed, her voice bright and clear. The client thanked her, handing her a business card.

He tried to talk to her. “I’ve broken things off with Debbie. I realize now—I only love you!”

He reached for her hand, his eyes pleading. My mom pulled away, her face calm.

She stood tall, her eyes steady. "We're done, Eddie."

“Sorry, we’re nothing now. Who you love is your business.”

She spoke with finality, her voice strong. He looked stunned, unable to respond.

She turned on her heel, walking away without a backward glance. I grinned, proud of her strength.

I saw my dad crouch outside the café, crying into his hands.

He sobbed, his shoulders shaking. I felt a pang of pity, but it quickly faded.

He’d once loved my mom so much.

But love isn’t enough if you can’t respect it. He’d lost her, and it was his own fault.

But he’d destroyed this family with his own hands.

I shook my head, walking away. Some lessons come too late.

He never meant to get divorced, but somewhere along the way, he lost control.

He let his pride and selfishness ruin everything. Now he had to live with the consequences.

After that, he didn’t dare bother my mom again.

He faded into the background, a shadow of the man he once was.

I heard his business failed and he lost the company. When I saw him next, he looked decades older, hair all gray.

He shuffled down the street, his shoulders hunched. I barely recognized him.

As for Debbie, I made sure everyone in her hometown knew what she’d done. She didn’t dare go back, and now she’s still up to her old tricks, but I heard she messed with the wrong person and got chased down. Someone even posted her videos online—she’s become a local internet joke.

Her reputation was in shambles. She drifted from town to town, never staying long. I didn't feel sorry for her.

But my mom—she found herself again. Her career took off, and she just kept getting better.

She landed a job at a translation agency, her confidence growing with every project. Her friends cheered her on, and so did I.

When I came home, I’d hear her happy voice, “Haley, I made your favorite baked salmon!”

She greeted me at the door, her face glowing. I hugged her, grateful for every moment.

“Aw, Mom, you’re the best!”

I grinned, grabbing a fork. She laughed, ruffling my hair.

She could handle anything, and finally, after all the hardship, my mom got her happy ending!

I watched her dance around the kitchen, her laughter filling the house. For the first time in years, I felt truly at home. And I knew, no matter what, we'd be okay. Together.