Chapter 9 - Remembering Naomi
The following Saturday, Bennett and Cora walked hand-in-hand through the peaceful paths of the city cemetery. The morning sun filtered softly through the tall oak trees, casting dappled shadows across the marble headstones.
When they reached Naomi’s grave, there was no freezing wind, no harsh commands, and no crushing guilt. Instead, the ground around the headstone was freshly turned and meticulously planted with rows of bright white lilies and green ferns.
Cora knelt down gently—not in punishment, but in loving remembrance. She placed a small hand against the cool marble where her mother’s photograph smiled serenely.
"Hi, Mom," Cora whispered softly, her voice filled with peace. "I'm healthy now. And Dad is the best dad in the whole world. We miss you, but we're going to be okay."
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Bennett knelt down beside his daughter, wrapping his arm securely around her waist. He looked at Naomi’s smiling face in the photograph, feeling a profound sense of closure and forgiveness wash over his soul.
"Thank you for watching over her," Bennett whispered, his voice steady and full of love. "We're going to be a real family now, Naomi. I promise."
