Page 22 of Finding Wonderland

Unable to handle it any longer, Vera pulled Isla into a hug. She willingly accepted the gesture, leaning into Vera for support.

“I miss her so much.”

“I can’t imagine.”

And Vera couldn’t. She didn’t know how on earth she could or would handle it if she had a daughter that was taken from her. Isla’s pain was almost palpable as she spoke.

“I’ve done everything I can to get her back. But the judge made his decision and Blake isn’t being harmed. So my chances of getting her back are slim.”

“I’m so sorry.” The words felt insignificant up against the situation.

“I have filed an appeal for them to review the custody case, but my lawyer says it’s most likely going to be denied. And I don’t have any money left to keep fighting. I feel like I’m failing my daughter.”

“You’re not.”

“I’m her mom.” Another sob. “I’ve been trying so hard to remind myself that Blake—that’s her name. I don’t know if I told you. But I’ve been trying to remind myself that Blake is okay and she’s happy and healthy from what I can tell. Her dad isn’t going to hurt her. I know that.”

“But still,” Vera responded. “It has to be so hard.”

“It is. I want to be able to tell her I love you more one time. I didn’t know the last time would be the last time.”

“I’m so sorry, Isla.”

Isla pulled away from Vera slightly, drying her tears with her sleeve. “I’m sorry too. I didn’t mean to ruin our date.”

“Hey,” Vera tenderly lifted Isla’s chin so their eyes met, “you don’t ever have to apologize to me for expressing your feelings. Especially when they come to your children. Okay?”

Isla only nodded.

“I know we just met, but I want you to know I’m here for you, Isla. I really like you, but it’s more than that. I want to be in your life. Because,” she smiled ever so slightly, “I think you’re pretty damn great.”

For the first time that night, Isla smiled.

“Well, you’re pretty great yourself, you know.”

“Oh, I know,” Vera teased, which made Isla laugh.

“I’m still sorry I ruined our date. I thought I could put myself together but…”

“It’s okay, I promise.” Vera hugged Isla again. “Thank you for trusting me with your story.”

“I wish it had a happier ending.”

“It will,” she said confidently, although she had no way of knowing how or when. “One day it will.”

Gently kissing Isla’s forehead, she let her take the lead on when they would get up from the bench. Vera would have stayed there as long as Isla needed. She had her head resting on Vera’s shoulder as their hands intertwined on her lap. Despite being in the middle of downtown, it felt as if it were only the two of them in the world.

“I’m sorry I ruined our dinner,” Isla finally said.

“Nonsense.” Standing, Vera held her hand out to Isla. “Let’s go grab something.”

“Just not at the bar.”

“Not a fan?”

“Oh, no, I am.” Isla chuckled. “I just kinda work there so…”

“Oh, my God,” Vera laughed, playfully hitting her forehead with her hand. “You told me that.”

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