Chapter 28 - julian came to leo’s school
Leo's school held a father-son baseball afternoon.
Julian almost didn't go.
He called me.
“I don't know if I should.”
“Did Leo invite you?”
“Yes.”
“Then go.”
“What if people know?”
“They probably do.”
He sighed.
“What if they talk?”
“Then let them talk.”
Julian went.
Leo later told me what happened.
They sat on the bleachers.
Julian didn't give him advice.
Didn't buy him anything.
Didn't try to impress anyone.
He just watched.
After the game, Leo asked:
“Dad?”
“Yes?”
“Did you ever think you'd be here again?”
Julian smiled.
“No.”
“Are you glad?”
“Yes.”
“Why?”
Julian looked at him.
“Because I get to know you.”
Leo didn't say anything.
But he leaned against his father's shoulder.
That small movement meant more than any apology.
When Julian told me later, his voice was shaking.
“I didn't deserve it.”
“No,” I said.
“But I was grateful.”
“That matters.”
He paused.
“Do you think he can forgive me?”
I answered honestly.
“I think he's deciding.”
And that was enough.
Forgiveness belonged to Leo.
Not to me.
Not to Julian.
May you like
Not to anyone else.
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