25

_KIMBERLY_

After talking with Oliver, we walked back to the shore hand in hand. The wind blew softly as the waters swayed through our legs. I couldn't hold back the happiness from showing on my face.

My love for Oliver grew and I smugly smiled to myself, grateful that I made decisions that allowed me to experience and wholely enjoy this moment. This was better than dragging myself through the day only to return to an empty apartment.

It made me realize that as much as you might need a hand to pull you out from a dark place, your response to that hand mattered.

"Dad!" Lora called as she rushed towards us with a small, empty red bucket.

He smiled and picked her up. "What's got you so excited?"

"I buried my beach buddy in the sand," she said with a giggle and pointed to a spot where only Ana's head was visible.

I laughed. "I'll go and give her a hand."

He nodded and leaned in to kiss my lips gently. I kissed him back