Never Forgotten

Chapter 4: Forever yours

Eleanor

Twirling my finger around Sofia's soft locks, I watched her as she slept peacefully. I was relieved she was finally asleep. I was at breaking point watching her sob into my tummy.

I could feel the little one inside of me press against me as if sensing their older sister was upset and wanted to comfort her. 

How am I supposed to comfort her when the one person she wanted was no longer here with us.

"I need you Oscar. I need you with us".

Letting my eyes fall shut, I began to dream about him. It had been so long since I saw his beautiful eyes that I was starting to forget what they looked like.

"Mummy?".

My eyes shot open as Sofia's little voice hicupped my name. 

"What is it baby? Are you okay?". 

Sofia sat up suddenly and looked around as if she had been spooked by something.

"Did you hear that?" she whispered, her little mouth dropped open and her eyes wide.

"Hear what baby?".

Sofia rubbed her eyes a couple of times before looking round completely shocked.

"I heard him. I heard daddy".

And just like that, my heart was broken again.

Before I could open my mouth to gently shut her down, she looked down at my stomach and cupped both sides gently.

"Did you hear that baby brother or sister? Daddy said he is coming home to protect us".

I felt tears prick the lining of my eyes watching as Sofia kissed my covered stomach. 

"Baby, daddy, he, he isn't here".

I still hadn't spoken with Sofia after everything Brian said to her and I was reluctant to, especially as we had no idea of whether he was alive or not.

"I know mummy, but he told me in my sleep. He also told me to tell you that he loves you very much".

They do say children see things that adults don't. I know she had some psychological trauma after everything, but seeing her dad that could possibly be dead?

"Hey mummy?".

Sofia pressed her lips softly on my stomach once more before looking up at me with soft eyes.

"Yes baby?".

I watched anxiously as Sofia started rummaging through Oscar's suit jacket pocket with her eyes glued on mine.

"So when daddy was asleep, I found this in his jacket pocket. Brian told me it was a surprise for you to open at Christmas. But if my daddy is in heaven, then I am not sure he will be back in time for Christmas. I-I want to give it to you now. This was a present from daddy to you".

My heart dropped when Sofia pulled out a small velvet box. 

I felt sobs crawl their way up my throat as she opened up the little box revealing the most beautiful ring I had ever seen.

I was a complete mix of emotions. I was in shock, overwhelmed and overcome with sadness. Sadness because Oscar was not here to ask me the question. 

"I know he is not here, but will you marry my daddy?". 

What was I to say? Even though Brian broke her heart saying he was dead, she was too young for it to sink in. She was adamant that he was coming back and nothing could change her mind. I was still torn over what to think, but maybe for the sake of my children, I should also remain hopeful.