Evelyn sent a few more messages, defensive and laced with bitterness, but Michael never responded. He chose instead to focus on the family we were nurturing.

One day, a postcard arrived in the mail. It was from Evelyn. I hesitated before handing it to Michael, bracing myself for more hurtful words. But when he opened it, a small, hesitant smile appeared on his face.

“Why don’t we give her some time?” Michael suggested, echoing his earlier sentiments. “Maybe one day she’ll realize what she’s missing.”

“Maybe,” I replied, still protective, yet hopeful.

And as Sophie ran up to us, proudly displaying another tooth she had lost, I knew that no matter what happened, our family was strong, united by genuine love. Evelyn’s acceptance would be wonderful, but it was no longer essential for our happiness. We had everything we needed right here, in each other.