Where did you get that ring

Less polished. Less armored. Still beautiful, but tired in a way makeup couldn’t hide.

Mason ran to her.

“Mommy!”

Valerie knelt and hugged him tightly.

Alexander looked away to give them privacy.

A moment later, Valerie approached him.

“Thank you for letting me come,” she said.

“It’s his birthday.”

“I know.”

They stood awkwardly near the patio.

Valerie looked continue reading …