Victor turned out to be a wonderful man, honest, reliable, hardworking, and he immediately got along with Noah. The boy was drawn to him, sensing his sincerity and kindness.
“Uncle Victor, can you be my daddy?” Noah asked once.
Victor blushed. He looked at Emily.
“That is not for me to decide, Noah. The grown-ups decide that.”
“But I want you to be my daddy. You are good.”
In the evening, when Noah was asleep, Emily and Victor talked in the kitchen over coffee.
“Emily, I have to tell you something,” he began hesitantly.
“I am listening.”
“I love coming here. I love being with you and with Noah. I feel at home.”
“I like your company, too.”
“I think I mean I have…” He stopped.
“Victor, just say it.”
“I am in love with you. I know it might sound strange. We have both been through a betrayal, but I think we can overcome it.”
Emily was silent, weighing her words. She liked Victor, too. But after Ethan, she was afraid to open her heart again.
“Victor, I need time to think.”
“Of course, I am in no hurry. I just wanted you to know how I feel.”
They saw each other for three more months before Emily agreed to a serious relationship. Victor was patient, understanding what she had been through and not pressuring her.
Their wedding was simple with only close friends. Mr. Roth also attended, who over time had become not just a lawyer, but a true friend.
“Emily, you are incredibly brave,” he said in a toast. “Few women are capable of fighting so masterfully for justice. You are an inspiration.”
Colonel Black sent a telegram. I wish you all the happiness. Your courage uncovered a huge criminal scheme. You are a true hero.
In the evening, the newlyweds were alone. Noah was sleeping. Emily and Victor were sitting on the terrace looking at the stars.
“Are you happy?” Emily asked.
“What do you mean for having joined your life with a woman with a past like mine?”
“Emily, your past is what shows what a strong person you are. You did not break. You did not become bitter. You did not give up. On the contrary, you fought until the end. There are very few women like that.”
“And you are not afraid that I will discover something again,” she joked.
“I am terrified,” Victor replied seriously. “That is why I will always be honest with you. It would hurt me more to deceive you than anything else.”
They laughed.