She couldn’t believe these were the same kids from the market. Nathan was a star student and an athlete. Ben was the light of the house.
The past was a fading shadow. They were happy. But Sarah wanted to do more.
She’d always been good with her hands. As a kid, she’d made dolls and toys. One day, she found an old box of fabric scraps and made a stuffed rabbit for Ben.
He loved it. He took it everywhere. Then a mom at preschool asked for one. Then another.
Sarah started sewing at night. First simple toys, then more intricate ones. Each had a name and a story.
It brought in extra money and gave her a creative outlet. On that third anniversary, Sarah made an announcement. “I have news,” she said.
“I’m opening a shop.” Nathan’s eyes went wide. “A shop?”
“For my toys,” Sarah smiled. “A small studio downtown. I’ll do classes and sell my designs. It’s called ‘Family Stories.'”
“That’s awesome, Mom!” Nathan said. “You’re finally doing it.”
“I am,” she nodded.
“You guys taught me that it’s never too late for a new story.” Ben cheered, even though he didn’t quite get it. “Mom’s toys are going to have a house!”
Everyone laughed, and Sarah felt a surge of gratitude for the life she’d built. The shop opened a month later. It was cozy and bright.
She still did her editing work part-time, but the shop was her heart. It became a local favorite. People loved the “Family Stories” toys.
Every evening, when she came home to her boys, Sarah felt complete. One Sunday morning, they were doing their usual routine.
Ben was helping set the table, very seriously. Nathan was packing his gear for a bike race. The sun was streaming through the windows.
“What’s for breakfast?” Ben asked, climbing onto a chair. “Pancakes,” Sarah smiled.
“Then we’re going to the grocery store. We need supplies for the week.” Nathan came in with a list.
“I checked the pantry,” he said. “We need milk, eggs, and that specific thread you use for the bears.”
Sarah took the list, her heart full. This boy was her rock. “You’re the best,” she said, ruffling his hair.
They went to the big supermarket on the edge of town. It was crowded. Sarah was checking off items when her cart bumped into another.
She looked up to apologize and froze. Tom. Her ex-husband was standing right there.
He looked older. There was gray at his temples and lines around his eyes. But he was still the same Tom. “Sarah,” he said, stunned.
“I haven’t seen you in years.” The voice was a ghost from another life. “Tom,” she nodded, feeling surprisingly calm.
“It’s been a while.” Ben tugged on her hand. “Mom, can I have the cereal with the tiger?”
She lifted him up and put him in the cart. Nathan stepped closer, sensing the tension. Tom looked at the boys, his jaw dropping.
“Sarah… are these your kids?” There was a mix of shock and something else in his voice.
“Yes,” Sarah smiled, putting a hand on Nathan’s shoulder. “This is Nathan and Ben. My sons.”
Tom stared at them, his mind clearly racing. He remembered the woman who “couldn’t” have kids. And here she was, a mother of two. “But…” he stammered.
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