A Second Chance at Forever novel (Eleanor and Bernard)

“You have my word,” Marcus affirmed, a sincere promise to his son.

Melissa exhaled softly, a blend of fondness and exasperation in her Voice. “You're spoiling him." But Marcus just shrugged, his love for his son clear as he responded, “It's no trouble at all. Besides, Matthew's not in pre-school until later this year. I want to cherish these moments.” Silence was Melissa's acquiescence.

Post-dinner, Marcus, Matthew, and Minnie disappeared into the tool room. There, they didn't just build a dining set for Minnie; they crafted a small bed, too, with Marcus taking the time to smooth down every edge until it gleamed.

Minnie, sensing the bed was her own, leapt onto it with joy, her tail a cheerful flag.

them upstairs, sawdust sprinkling from

was poring over a financial report in her

said, “I'm thinking of

sight of him dusty, disheveled, but unmistakably content in his labors

They'll turn out better than anything we could make.” Yet Marcus was nonchalant,

of energy, bounded into the room and leaped into Melissa's arms, sniffing curiously at the financial report she set aside. Melissa quickly put

puppy with a smile and teased Marcus, “Seems Like you're treating Minnie as if she were your little girl” Marcus, with a hint of something deeper in his gaze, threw out a playful challenge. “What do you think about adding another kid to the mix?” Melissa remained silent at the

could just get married. I'm not looking for a stepmom for Matthew.” Before Melissa