The little girl grinned. “My dad made it!” she said proudly. Kate’s pulse quickened. “Could you show me where your house is?” she asked, trying to keep her voice steady. The girl nodded eagerly, leading Kate a few streets away. When they reached the house, Kate’s breath caught. Standing there, handing out candy, was Carl—alive.
Their eyes met, filled with shock and memories. “Hi,” Kate whispered. “Hi,” he replied softly, the silence between them heavy. Then Carl sighed. “I’m sorry, Kate. I didn’t know how to tell you the truth.”
Kate swallowed hard, her voice trembling. “What truth, Carl?” He looked away, guilt written across his face. “I met someone else. Her name is Rachel,” he admitted. “The little girl—she’s like family to me now.” His words stung, but Kate kept her composure, her voice barely a whisper. “And Holly and me? We were your family, too.” Carl looked down, remorseful. “I couldn’t live in two worlds, Kate. I had to choose.”
The weight of his words settled over her, but Kate found strength. “Then be happy, Carl. That’s all you can do.” She turned, walking back with a heavy but resolute heart.
When she returned home, Holly’s laughter filled the air, candy spilling from her bucket. Embracing her daughter, Kate knew this was the life she would hold close—a future with Holly, one she’d nurture without looking back.