Page 74 of The Dating Pact

Babe.

You’re not losing him.

You’ll never lose him. Or Amelia.

You’ve all been through some really traumatic and terrible stuff, and as much as they needed you, I think you also needed them. You’ve held them really close, which is totally understandable, but you have to let them fly. They have to try out for baseball teams and not make them. Or make them and learn it’s hard to keep commitments.

My eyes stung as I typed, my heart expanding with the realization of how much I felt for Jude and his children. And I was so grateful for Jude’s trust, honored that he would allow me to be his sounding board and support system.

You and Mira made these two beautiful children. They’re smart and kind, and you’ve raised them so well, when other people might’ve faltered in your same position. You’re a great dad. The BEST dad. I am so proud of you.

They’ll fail and stumble and mess up, but they’ll be fine because of you. Because you showed them how to pick themselves up and keep going even when life sucks.

It was a while before he responded.

Jude

Thank you.

Jude

I guess I feel like it’s only been the three of us for so long, these little changes with the kids feel huge.

Jude

I just needed to talk it out.

Happy to be your ear.

When he didn’t immediately text back, I moved into the bathroom to remove my makeup and brush my teeth. After I finished moisturizing, I grabbed my phone before taking a seat on the couch to watch TV and smiled at the message.

Jude

You called me babe.

I did.

Jude

I liked it.

Me too.

Jude

I’ve got to get the kids ready for bed. What are you doing for the rest of the night?

I don’t know. Maybe Emily in Paris.

Jude

Don’t you dare start the new season without me.

Uuuggghhhhh. Fine.

I’ll watch Derry Girls.

Jude

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