I couldn’t believe it. Eli had defended me, calling me “dad” without even realizing it. That simple word meant everything to me—it was a sign that I was becoming more than just his mom’s husband.
When I finally handed out the slushies, I tried to keep my emotions in check. Eli smiled up at me, saying, “Thanks,” with such genuine warmth. It felt like a small victory.
As the day went on, I noticed a change. Eli stuck closer to me, asking for my opinion on rides and sharing jokes. It felt natural, effortless, like I wasn’t just a tag-along anymore—I was part of his world.
By the time we reached the bumper cars, Eli asked me what I thought about going on them, and when we did, he made sure to bump into my car with a grin, yelling, “Gotcha!” We laughed together, chasing each other around the track, and for the first time, I felt like we were really bonding.
As the day wound down, Eli walked beside me instead of running ahead with his friends. Quietly, he slipped his hand into mine, and that simple gesture said more than words ever could—it felt like we had crossed an invisible bridge, one that led from being just “mom’s husband” to “dad.”
We ended the day on the carousel, the soft music and slow pace a peaceful close to an eventful day. Eli held my hand the whole time, his smile wide and carefree. As we drove home, I reflected on how far we’d come. That day wasn’t just about rides and laughter—it was a turning point, a moment where I knew I was becoming more than just an outsider in his life.
I was becoming his dad, and that made everything worthwhile.