As Grace continued to watch, emotions flooded her: relief mingled with guilt for her suspicions, admiration for Ethan’s devotion, and sadness for the void his father’s absence had left.

She realized Ethan’s commitment was not merely about comforting his mother but about preserving his father’s legacy—a legacy of love and remembrance etched into every page of that journal.

Quietly retreating to her room, Grace’s heart was heavy with a newfound understanding. She hadn’t just married Ethan; she had married into a family built on deep love and shared memories.

She lay awake, contemplating her place in this narrative, determined to bridge the distance in her marriage.

The following morning, Grace brewed coffee as the first light of dawn painted the kitchen. When Ethan entered, she met him with a gentle smile, her previous doubts replaced by empathy. “I’d like to join you tonight,” she said softly, her voice steady with resolve.