Apollo's First day with his Father

"Hey, you two, you keep on having this drama. I'm hungry now, and even Diego is!" Apollo exclaimed, breaking the tension with his youthful exuberance.

Meriam and Aaron exchanged amused glances, laughter bubbling up between them. The moment felt lighter, infused with Apollo's bright spirit. "Alright, little man, let's get you something to eat," Meriam said, wiping her tears and rising to her feet.

Together, they moved to the small cooking area, gathering what little food they had. As they prepared a simple meal, the air filled with the warm scents of cooking. Apollo watched, his excitement growing. "This is the best! I can't wait to eat!"

Aaron joined in the preparation, chopping vegetables with newfound determination. "You know, I might not be a chef, but I can definitely make a mean stew," he said, flashing a grin at Apollo.

The boy giggled, his previous worries forgotten. "I can't wait to try it! It'll be the first meal I have with both my mom and my dad!" His eyes sparkled with joy, and Meriam felt her heart swell at the sight of his happiness.

Once the food was ready, they gathered around the small table, the atmosphere warm and inviting. They served up generous portions, and as they sat down together, Apollo dug in eagerly. "This is delicious!" he exclaimed between bites, his face lighting up.

Meriam and Aaron shared a smile, the weight of their earlier conversation lifting as they watched Apollo savor each mouthful. It was a simple meal, but in that moment, it felt like a feast. With every laugh and shared glance, they began to forge a new bond, one filled with hope and possibility, around the table of their small home.

As they enjoyed their meal, Apollo suddenly nudged Aaron, curiosity sparkling in his eyes. "Hmm, what shall I call you then?"

Aaron smiled warmly, his heart lifting. "You can call me father, or papa, whatever feels right to you."

"Okay, papa!" Apollo beamed. "Can we go to the river now? It's been so hot today, plus I wanted to wash Diego!" He glanced at the dog, who lay contentedly by his feet, tongue lolling out in the heat.

Aaron chuckled, looking over at Meriam. "Well, do you agree, Mama?"

"Of course! Let's go then," Meriam replied, her spirits lifted by the prospect of a family outing. The idea of spending time together by the river felt like a small step towards healing.

As they finished their lunch, Apollo hopped up, practically bouncing with excitement. "I can't wait to splash around! And I bet Diego will love it, too!"

Meriam quickly gathered the dishes while Aaron helped Apollo grab a small towel for Diego. The anticipation in the air was palpable as they made their way outside, the sun shining brightly, casting a golden glow over everything.

The path to the river was lined with wildflowers swaying gently in the breeze, and as they walked, Apollo chattered about all the fun they would have. Meriam felt a warmth spread through her chest, imagining the laughter that awaited them.

Arriving at the river, the sight of the sparkling water brought smiles to all their faces. Apollo dashed ahead, laughing as he ran to the water's edge, while Aaron and Meriam exchanged a glance filled with hope. This was a new beginning, and together, they were ready to embrace it.

When they arrived at the river, Meriam felt a rush of memories wash over her. She remembered the days spent here before everything changed, the laughter shared in the sun, and the moment when she first met Aaron. Sitting on a smooth rock by the water's edge, she let herself relax, watching the two boys splash and play together.

Apollo's laughter rang out, pure and joyful, as he chased after Aaron, who was playfully dodging the water splashes. Meriam couldn't help but smile, feeling a wave of happiness and relief wash over her. With Aaron's tough grandpa no longer in the picture, life had begun to feel lighter, more hopeful.

Meriam dipped her fingers into the cool water, feeling the gentle current slip through her hands. She admired the delicate lilies floating nearby, their soft petals brushing against her skin. The beauty of the moment wrapped around her like a comforting embrace.

Suddenly, a splash erupted as Apollo and Aaron aimed a playful jet of water in her direction. "Come on, Mama! Join us!" Apollo called out, his face alight with excitement.

With a laugh, Meriam shook her head, feigning disapproval but unable to hide her grin. "You two are going to get me all wet!"

"Exactly! That's the point!" Aaron replied, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

After a moment of hesitation, Meriam stood up, the joy of the scene urging her to let go of her worries. "Alright, alright! Just remember, you asked for it!" she called back, her laughter mingling with the sounds of the river.

As she stepped closer to the water, the coolness kissed her skin, and she couldn't resist any longer. With a playful shriek, she splashed back at them, the three of them caught up in a delightful whirl of water and laughter. In that moment, surrounded by the love of her son and the man she was beginning to trust again, Meriam felt the weight of the past lift, replaced by the warmth of their new beginning.

The three of them enjoyed the river for hours, splashing, laughing, and making memories that would last a lifetime. As the sun began to set, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, they reluctantly made their way back to the hut, still buzzing from their fun.

When they arrived, however, the atmosphere shifted. A group of people stood waiting outside, their expressions a mix of relief and anticipation. Ben, Aaron's secretary, stepped forward, a smile breaking across his face. "Sir, we're glad you're finally here," he said, his voice warm with welcome.

Aaron, still a little damp from their river escapades, wiped his hands on his pants and greeted them with a nod. "Thanks, Ben. It's good to be back." Then, turning to the crowd, he added proudly, "By the way, this is Meriam and Apollo—my family."

A ripple of excitement passed through the group as they greeted Meriam and Apollo. "It's wonderful to meet you both!" one of them exclaimed. "Aaron has talked about you so much."