Echo of a Bird's Cry

THE HERO ANGEL JUNE 10

I leave out of the grocery store and spot John in the coffee shop across the street. He and a pretty dark-haired woman sit at a table, having what looks like an intimate conversation. He laughs at something she says and she reaches over to clutch his hand. I'm glad he's starting over. It's a good thing that he isn't moping around after the debacle of Ashely. She lied to everyone. We found out Ashely wasn't pregnant once the autopsy report released. In fact, she was on birth control. She deceived John. He thought they were starting a family. Ashely was only plotting and scheming. She was never in love with John. She was never Emily's friend. She fooled us all. Ashely deceived everyone but Eden. It's for the better that we've all moved on.

His gaze meets mine and he lifts his chin.

I nod, grinning.

I pack my groceries into my trunk. The drive home feels short. Or maybe I'm just eager. I'm startled when I open the door and everyone shouts happy birthday. I'm sprayed with silly string. My wife leads me to a massive sheet cake that's sprinkled in confetti. Alex, Ella, Elizabeth, Easton, and Darrius sing happy birthday. I blow out my candles and everyone cheers. I breathe in the birthday aroma of blown out wax candles and sweet buttercream frosting. My wife smashes my face into the cake. I inhale a nose full of frosting. Everyone erupts into laughter. She leaps and squeals when I grab her. She wiggles free and makes a run for it. I chase my wife around the kitchen with Sandy on my heels, barking and wagging her tail. The table is between Eden and me. She fakes going right and I call her bluff. I catch her, pulling her into my arms. I kiss her hard. She tosses her head back, laughing. Her brown eyes are gleaming with mischief and affection. She licks at the buttercream smeared across my lips. I touch her swollen belly. Baby fever has officially began. Our six month old girl kicks under the weight of my palm.

I narrow my eyes. "You told me you needed cookie dough and pickles."

She makes a face. "Ewe. No. That combination is gross. I needed a good reason to get you out of the house."

"It worked. Best birthday I've had."

I'm not sure of all the challenges and uncertainties life will continue to throw at us. What I do know is that I can face anything when I stand next to this woman. There is no darkness too dark or secret too deep. With her hand in mine, she gives me the strength to take on the world. That's all the reassurance I need.

THE END