From Divorce to Billionaire’s Baby

Chapter Eight: Seeking Counsel

After the lunch with Ryan, I return home feeling emotionally drained. My mind replays every word of our conversation, dissecting his intentions, questioning whether he’s truly changed or if this is just another fleeting attempt to make things right. I don’t know what to believe. He says he wants to be involved, to be a father. But can he be trusted?

As I step into my grandparent’s house, the familiar warmth of my childhood home wraps around me like a comforting embrace. The soft scent of baked bread wafts through the air, a reminder of the safety and love that have always lived here. My parents and grandparents are in the living room, engaged in light conversation. The moment they see me, all eyes turn my way.

“How did it go, sweetheart?” my mother asks gently, her voice filled with concern.

My grandfather, ever the silent protector, watches me closely, his brow furrowed in that familiar way that shows he’s already worrying about what I might say.

I hesitate for a moment, unsure of how to begin. Taking a deep breath, I walk over and sink into the armchair by the window, gathering my thoughts. My grandmother pats the seat beside her on the couch, inviting me to sit closer, but I stay where I am, feeling the need for a bit of distance.

“It went… okay,” I finally say, folding my hands in my lap. “Ryan wants to be involved. He says he wants to be a father and that he’s willing to prove it.”

There’s a moment of silence as my words sink in. My grandfather’s lips press into a thin line, and I can tell he’s not happy about it. My mother and grandmother exchange glances, while my grandfather remains still, his wise eyes fixed on me, waiting for me to say more.

“Do you believe him?” my grandfather asks, his voice firm but gentle. He’s never been one to mince words when it comes to protecting me, and I know his question isn’t meant to be harsh, but it cuts through my uncertainty like a blade.

“I don’t know,” I admit, looking down at my hands. “I want to believe him. But… you all know how it was before. He was never there. I don’t know if he’s capable of being the kind of father this baby needs.”

My mother leans forward, her hand resting on her heart. “People can change, Tess. Sometimes it takes something big, like a baby, to make someone realize what’s truly important.”

“And sometimes they don’t,” my grandfather adds, his voice edged with caution. “You’ve already been through enough, Tess. The last thing you need is more disappointment.”

I feel a lump form in my throat, unsure of what to say. They’re both right in their own ways. People can change, but sometimes they don’t. And I don’t know which Ryan I’m dealing with now.

My grandmother, who has remained quiet until now, clears her throat, drawing everyone’s attention. Her voice is soft but carries the weight of years of wisdom. “Tess, dear, you’ve always been strong, even when you didn’t feel like it. I can see that strength in you now. But strength also means knowing when to trust, even if it’s hard.”

I blink back the tears that threaten to spill over, feeling the warmth of her words. My grandmother has always been my quiet cheerleader, offering advice when I needed it most, never judging, always encouraging.

“I just don’t know if I can go through it all again,” I say, my voice barely above a whisper. “I don’t know if I can trust him with my heart, or with this baby.”

My grandfather, who has been silent until now, speaks up, his deep voice steady and calming. “Trust isn’t given all at once, Tess. It’s built slowly, piece by piece. If Ryan wants to be part of this baby’s life, let him show you he’s capable. But don’t feel like you have to rush into anything.”

I nod, appreciating his words. My grandparents have been together for over fifty years, and their marriage has always been a testament to the kind of love and partnership I’ve longed for. But their love wasn’t built overnight. It was forged through years of patience, understanding, and trust.

“I don’t want to shut him out if he’s really trying,” I say after a long pause. “But I can’t let him hurt me again. Not when there’s so much more at stake now.”

“You’re not the same woman you were back then, Tess,” my mother says softly. “You’re stronger now. You know what you deserve, and you know what this baby deserves. Trust yourself to make the right decision.”

My grandfather sighs, running a hand through his graying hair. “I just don’t want you to get your hopes up, Tess. I will support whatever you decide but be careful. He’s had his chance to be a good husband, and he blew it. Don’t let him make empty promises again.”

The room falls silent again, everyone deep in thought. I feel their love and concern surrounding me, but I know that ultimately, the decision is mine to make.

“I’m going to take it one step at a time,” I say finally, my voice firm. “I’m not going to rush into anything with Ryan, but I will at least let him prove himself. For the baby’s sake, if nothing else.”

My parents and grandparents nod in agreement, and the tension in the room eases slightly. But even as we talk, I can’t help but feel the weight of uncertainty pressing down on me.

Ryan says he’s changed. He says he wants to be a father. But only time will tell if his actions can live up to his words.

For now, I must trust myself, and hope that I’m making the right choice for me and for the baby.