Redemption

Living Again

"She asked about her mother again this morning."

Settling on the porch at his side, Olivia held out a cup of hot tea to her husband. Rueben took it with a smile, nodding in acknowledgment.

"She asked me yesterday."

"You didn't tell me that," sipping at her cup, Olivia's green eyes studied her husband's expression with care. Almost ten years had passed since they left Australia behind them, and this was still a sensitive topic. No amount of love, forgiveness, or redemption would wipe away the pain.

"I said I would tell her when I thought she was ready to hear the truth. She's so young, Livy."

"But she's smart, just like you." Her counter was gentle. "And she'll understand the important parts. Melody just wants to know a part of who she is."

"Okay," setting the cup aside with a sigh he nodded, keeping his gaze on the far horizon. "Have her come out here."

Leaning over to kiss his cheek, Olivia smiled.

"I'm proud of you." Getting up, she called for their eldest child to come out, patting her head on the way inside the cottage.

"Daddy?" Melody's steps were light, her wild brown curls streaked with blond. Her eyes were a vibrant hue of purple.

"Come sit with me," lifting an arm, he curled it around her shoulders, tucking his daughter against his side. Her slender hands folded into his, her head resting against his ribs.

"You look like your mother." He started, watching her from the corner of his eye. Melody looked up, surprised.

"I do?"

"The shape of your nose and eyes, the way you tilt your head, how you walk, the way you laugh... it's all your mother."

"Really?"

"Yes." Softly, he began to tell her about Harmony. Simple things. Easy things. Memories she could hold onto as she grew older. Sitting quietly for a little while, the child thought it over.

"Mommy died?"

"A long time ago, when you were brand new to this world."

"Did she love me?"

"Very much."

"I love her too," playing with the checkered folds of her jumper, the little girl smiled shyly. "Is that okay?"

"Fine," hugging the child, Rueben pressed his lips to her curls. "It's just fine."

Climbing into his lap, Melody looked at her father seriously before wrapping her arms around his neck. Soft breath tickled his neck.

"Do I make you sad when you look at me, Daddy?"

Pulling her closer he squeezed her tight.

"You give me nothing but joy, and don't ever think otherwise."

Smiling, happily reassured of her place in his heart, Melody put a sloppy kiss against his jaw making them both laugh.

"I love you, Daddy,"

"And I you,"

"Livy says I can hold the baby if I'm careful." Her expression was hopeful, so he grinned, nodding his head toward the cottage.

"Off with you."

A soft step from behind turned his head. Olivia waited until Melody was inside.

"Is she alright?"