The judge did not put it exactly that way in the order.
But Lily remained Langley.
One year after her birth, we held a small birthday party in Daniel’s apartment.
Not because my life was still small.
Because that was where I had become safe.
There were balloons, a crooked homemade banner, cupcakes with too much frosting, and Lily in a yellow dress attempting to eat wrapping paper with more enthusiasm than cake.
Dana came. Yes, the nurse. We had stayed in touch after I sent a thank-you note that turned into coffee that turned into friendship. Maribel came too, bringing a stuffed fox because she said every survivor needed a sly ally. Priya came with a board book about justice that was wildly age-inappropriate but emotionally satisfying.
Eli stood near the window, holding a cup of coffee.
Not hiding.
Just quiet.
Daniel raised a plastic cup of sparkling cider.
