If We Fall Again

Chapted 9

Elise strolled out of the toy store, the gift for Noah's birthday tucked securely in her hand. As she approached her car, she spotted a familiar figure ahead—Nate. He was walking in front, his posture serious, as always. Memories flashed in her mind, taking her back to high school. This scene—her walking a few steps behind him—felt eerily similar to their teenage years when she used to trail after him, trying to catch up and talk.

Without thinking, Elise called out, "Nate!" Her voice echoed across the parking lot, but he didn’t turn around. She quickened her pace, walking faster to close the gap between them. The past weighed heavily on her heart, memories of their breakup, her leaving town, and the pain in Nate’s eyes before she left came rushing back.

“Nate, wait,” Elise said, her voice softer this time. Nate’s steps slowed but he still didn’t turn. She took a deep breath, gathering her courage. “I’m sorry,” she said, her voice breaking slightly. “I’m really, really sorry for everything.”

Nate froze, his back still facing her. His fists clenched at his sides, a silent signal of the storm brewing inside him. Elise’s heart sank. She had hoped for some kind of acknowledgment, but he remained silent. After what felt like an eternity, Nate simply resumed walking, his back still to her.

Elise watched him go, her chest tight with regret. She had hurt him deeply, and that pain hadn’t faded, not even after all these years.

__

A few days later, Elise was on the phone with Sam, her mind racing about Noah’s upcoming birthday. “I don’t know, Sam. Maybe I shouldn’t go. I mean, Nate’s still angry, and it’s his son’s party. What if I make things awkward?”

“Don’t be ridiculous,” Sam said firmly on the other end of the line. “You’re not going for Nate. You’re going for Noah. The kid clearly adores you. You can’t let your overthinking get in the way of that.”

Elise chuckled despite herself. “Yeah, you’re right. I just… I don’t want to stir things up.”

“You won’t,” Sam reassured her. “It’s a kid’s party, not some dramatic showdown. Go, have fun, and be there for Noah.”

With Sam’s words echoing in her head, Elise made up her mind. She’d go to the party. It wasn’t about Nate—it was about Noah.

When the day of the party arrived, Elise drove up to Nate’s house, her nerves jittery but determination pushing her forward. The house was buzzing with people, mostly adults, and the party decorations were bright and colorful, perfectly suited for a kid’s celebration, though it wasn’t the typical superhero-themed affair. It was clear that Noah had been given a party that suited his unique tastes.

Elise stepped into the backyard, and before she could even take in the scene, Noah spotted her. He dashed over, grinning ear to ear. “You came!” he exclaimed, throwing his arms around her legs in a tight hug. His joy was palpable, and it warmed Elise’s heart.

“I wouldn’t miss it for the world,” Elise replied, ruffling his hair affectionately.

Noah beamed up at her. “Come play with me!” he insisted, tugging at her hand.

Elise laughed and allowed herself to be pulled along, spending time with Noah and some of the other kids. She joined in their games, enjoying the lighthearted atmosphere. Noah, especially, seemed overjoyed to have her there, constantly pulling her into conversations or showing her something exciting.

As Elise was deep in play with Noah and the others, she suddenly felt a presence behind her. She turned to find Nate standing there, his face serious, his gaze sharp. “Elise, can I talk to you for a minute?” he asked, his voice tight.