Chapter 65

Aurora's POV
“I’m so grateful, Dante. This means so much to me,” I replied sincerely, touching the necklace. This moment, though simple, felt so profound and memorable in every part of my life. “I’m grateful to share this life with you and the kids.”
Seeing his bright smile gave me new hope. We understood how important it was to appreciate each other on this journey. This diamond necklace was more than just a piece of jewelry, it was also a reminder of the love and bond we have as a family.
When we returned to the kitchen, each of the children began to react with curiosity to the new necklace. “Mommy, it’s beautiful!” Ronald exclaimed, while Roline pointed at the necklace with a smile.
“Yes, Mommy is very lucky, isn’t she?” Dante replied, patting Roline’s head and holding my hand. Seeing this moment of happiness and love, I knew that we would continue to fight through all the obstacles that came our way.
One step at a time, we would continue to move forward—building new strength and happiness as a family, in sincere love and mutual support.
Today was an emotional day. I had made an appointment with my mom and dad to visit Molly’s grave. Despite our difficult relationship, I felt it was important to bring all my children—Roland, Ronald, Roline, and Cherry—to let them know that a family member had passed away. This moment was not only to remember Molly, but also to give Cherry a chance to understand who her mother was.
As we prepared to leave, I felt a tension in my heart. My mom looked at me and touched my shoulder, giving me the extra support I needed. “Remember, Aurora, this is part of the journey. We are here to pay our respects, not just to you but also to your children,” he said, his voice soft but meaningful.
“Yes, I know, Mom,” I replied, trying to steady myself even though feelings of doubt and sadness still gripped me. Seeing my four children preparing for this journey moved me. They were all so cheerful, not fully understanding what was about to happen.
When we arrived at Molly’s grave, the atmosphere was calm and somber. I saw that Dad was already there, waiting for us. For a moment, I took a deep breath before we stepped forward. The peacefulness of the cemetery made me feel reflective, as if honoring all that had passed.
“Come, let’s come closer and pay our respects,” I said to the children, embracing them. Roland and Ronald looked serious, while Roline leaned on my arm, her face looking confused. Cherry, though still very small, was in my arms, and I hoped she could feel the presence of all the love.
Gently, I carried them to the gravestone. There was Molly’s name engraved on the stone, and looking at it brought all the memories flooding back to me. Disappointment, happy memories, and pain mixed together.
“This is your mother, Roline,” I said softly, looking at my daughter. “She’s gone, but we’re here to remember her.”
Roland and Ronald looked thoughtful. They may not have fully understood, but their presence meant something. With some hesitation, I placed my hand on the headstone. “Molly, even though a lot has happened between us, I want you to know that I wish you the best and that I will take good care of Cherry.”
The day was filled with prayers and hopes. My mother stood beside me, providing the emotional support I had been desperately seeking. I felt like I was able to handle a little bit of all of those feelings—whether it was sadness, disappointment, or confusion.
After a few moments, I gave the children a chance to speak. Roland and Ronald gently shared their wishes, though Roline remained silent. I was proud that they had come and tried to honor a woman who had been a part of their lives.
When we were done, I felt like I was slowly coming to terms with the feelings that had weighed me down. Life went on, and even though our relationship with Molly had been complicated, each presence brought an opportunity for growth. We continued our journey home, and as we prepared to return, I realized one thing—the wounds may not completely heal, but with the love and support of family, we can find a way to move forward together.
*
Today is a very special day in my life—I graduated with my Masters degree! Gratitude and pride flooded my heart. If someone had asked me a month ago if I could achieve this, I would have doubted. The struggles I went through were not easy, but finally all the hard work paid off.
In one of the happiest moments in my life, I was not standing alone. Beside me, was Dante who had always given his full support throughout this journey. With a proud smile, he looked at me as if to express how grateful he was to be a part of this achievement.
My four children, Roland and Ronald who are now three years old, and Roline who is also now three years old, gathered around me. Although they were still too young to fully understand the meaning of this achievement, their cheerful laughter and the curiosity in their eyes made me even more excited. Cherry, who is only one year old, looked even cuter in her little clothes. All these moments added to my happiness.
My father and mother were there too, bringing an indescribable sense of pride. Seeing them both give their support and affection made all the efforts I had made feel more meaningful. Oh my God, through all the trials of life, I have still made it to this point.
When my name was called to receive my degree, my heart skipped a beat. Seeing the faces of the children and family made me even more motivated. I stepped forward and accepted the diploma, then turned to them with a big smile.