Torn Between

chapter 51:A Family's Imagined Journey

One day...

Axel took a deep breath, a sense of responsibility and determination in his eyes as he broached the topic of his business in the Philippines.

Axel: "Iris, there's something I need to discuss with you. I've been thinking about the business I left back in the Philippines, and I believe it's time for me to go back for a while to check on things personally."

Iris looked at him, a mixture of understanding and concern in her eyes.

Iris: "Axel, I know how important your business is to you. But what about us? What about Axle?"

Axel: (gentle) "Iris, I wouldn't ask if it weren't necessary. I want to make sure everything is in order, not just for me but for our future as well. It's a temporary arrangement, and I promise to keep in touch as much as possible."

Iris: (thoughtful) "Axel, I support you in your endeavors, but we've just started rebuilding. Won't this put a strain on us, on Axle?"

Axel: "I've been thinking about that too. I'll do everything I can to make the distance less of a burden. We can have regular video calls, and I'll make sure to be involved in Axle's life even from afar."

Iris: (softly) "It's just... I don't want Axle to feel abandoned again. We've worked so hard to create stability for him."

Axel: (assuring) "Iris, I hear you. I don't want him to feel that way either. This is a decision I've thought long and hard about, and I'll do my best to make it as smooth as possible for all of us."

As they continued discussing Axel's plan, the porch became a space for honest conversation, navigating the complexities of balancing personal and family commitments. The air held a mixture of determination, understanding, and the shared hope that this temporary separation would strengthen rather than weaken the bonds they were working so hard to rebuild.

Iris listened to Axel's explanation about his business in the Philippines, contemplating the potential challenges that might arise. As Axel finished sharing his thoughts, Iris took a moment before responding.

Iris: "Axel, I understand the importance of your business, and I appreciate your honesty about it. But I've been thinking, and maybe there's another way. What if we all go with you to the Philippines?"

Axel looked surprised but hopeful at Iris's suggestion.

Axel: "You'd be willing to do that? Move to the Philippines with me?"

Iris: (nodding) "If it means keeping our family together and ensuring Axle doesn't feel left behind, then yes. we can schedule visiting my small dress shop here... anyway I have my sewers, they skillful now..they mastered their works...and I'm sure Axle would love the adventure."

Axel: (grateful) "Iris, that's an incredible offer. Are you sure you're okay with uprooting your lives like that?"

Iris: "Axel, our family is my priority. If it means being together and supporting you in your endeavors, then I'm on board. We can face the challenges as a family, just like we've been doing."

Axel: (smiling) "Iris, I can't express how much that means to me. It's a big change, but I believe it's the right choice for all of us."

As they continued discussing the logistics and potential changes, the porch became a space where decisions were made, and the shared commitment to family took precedence. The air was filled with a sense of unity and the anticipation of a new chapter in their lives.

Axel: "Iris, your willingness to put Axle's happiness above everything else means the world to me. I want you to know that I appreciate it, and I don't take it lightly."