Chapter 10 - Conversations of the Future
As London drew closer, the reality of the descent began to settle in. The transient magic of an airplane flight must eventually yield to the solid ground of everyday struggles.
"What will you do when you land, Elena?" Julian asked, nursing a cup of black coffee. Leo was now awake, contentedly sucking on his thumb, gazing with wide, curious eyes at the cabin lights.
"Aunt Martha has a small terrace flat near Greenwich," Elena said. "I'll look for nursing work at the local NHS trust. It will take time to get certified, but we manage. We always manage."
"It shouldn't always have to be a battle to manage," Julian said thoughtfully. He thought about his venture firm in New York, the endless millions moved across digital ledgers, funding apps and real estate complexes that rarely touched real human lives.
"You have a kind heart, Julian," Elena replied. "Don't lose it when you get back to your offices. Leo needs a father who knows how to listen, not just provide."
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"Maya taught me that," Julian said, looking down at the little girl, who was now showing Leo how to make funny shapes with her fingers. Leo let out a soft, gurgling chuckle—his very first laugh.
Julian froze. He had waited three months to hear that sound. It was music rising from the ashes of his despair.
