Page 37 of Worship Him

"Like this," she says, stepping in to help. Our hands brush, and I pull back like I've been shocked.

"I've got it," I snap, harsher than I intended.

She steps back, hurt flashing in her eyes before she masks it. "Fine."

I finish changing Avery, then cradle her against my chest. She babbles happily, oblivious to the tension surrounding her.

Avery holds onto my clothes as I rock her gently. Destiny left the room earlier but returned, leaning against the doorframe with a small smile playing on her lips.

The tension that’s been suffocating us since this whole mess started seems to lift, replaced by something almost... normal.

I can’t put my finger on what causes the shift in the atmosphere, but it’s welcome. Spending time with Avery when things are awkward would make it far less enjoyable.

"She’s got your eyes," I say, glancing over at Destiny. I feel a little pang of regret for snapping at her earlier but push it down. She did lie to me, afterall.

"And your stubbornness," she replies, a hint of laughter in her voice.

I chuckle, adjusting Avery in my arms. "That could be a dangerous combination."

"We’ll manage," Destiny says, her eyes softening as she watches us.

Avery starts to drift off, her eyelids fluttering. I move to the crib and lay her down gently, pulling the blanket over her. She settles almost immediately, a tiny fist resting near her mouth.

"I’ve been getting the house ready," I say quietly, not wanting to disturb Avery’s sleep.

Destiny stays quiet for a second before softly speaking. "Ready for what?"

"For Avery’s visits," I reply, turning to face her. "I want the next one to be at my place."

She hesitates for a moment, then nods. "Alright."

We leave the nursery and sit down in the living room. A moment of silence envelopes us before Destiny clears her throat. "She slept through the night for the first time ever last night."

I study her face and realize this must be an important milestone. "That’s great. Maybe she’ll do that regularly from now on."

Destiny smiles. "I’d be very lucky if she does. Some kids don’t sleep through even after 12 months."

We fall into an easy conversation, talking about Avery’s other milestones and little quirks. It’s nice—like old times without the weight of everything hanging over us. We steer clear of anything serious—no talk of work or divorce. Just Avery and the small joys she brings.

After a while, I glance at my watch. "I should go."

Destiny nods but doesn’t move right away. "Thanks for coming today," she says finally.

"Of course," I reply. "I’ll see you both soon."

When I step out into the hallway, I pause and look back at her. There’s something there—something we both feel but don’t say out loud but can feel.

I walk to the door without saying anything and stop short, about to leave. There's a weighty silence hanging between us.

Destiny shifts on her feet, her eyes flickering between me and the door. The air feels charged, like we're both on the brink of saying something but can't quite find the words.

"I'll see you soon," I finally say, gripping the door handle.

"Yeah," she replies softly.

I nod, but something keeps me rooted to the spot. I feel compelled to say something nice after being so harsh. "You did a good job with her, you know. Avery."

Destiny’s lips twitch into a small smile. "Thanks. I’m glad you think so. It hasn’t been easy…"

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