He clasped her hand tight, relief flooding him. “Then let me make it right,” he whispered. “Day by day. However long it takes.” Claire exhaled, a shaky laugh breaking through her tears. “You’d better,” she said, finally leaning into him. Her forehead rested against his chest, and he held her fiercely.
Upstairs, Ethan stirred and called out sleepily. Claire pulled back, brushing her eyes. Daniel kissed her hand before they climbed the stairs together. At the doorway, they watched their sons tangled in blankets, breathing evenly, safe. Claire squeezed his fingers once, quiet but firm, a sign of forgiveness beginning to take root.