On a bright December morning, Al had followed through on his promise to quit his job, and he and Martha shared the day in the shop—Al handling accounts while Martha crafted festive wreaths. Martha felt buoyed by the music, the light, and the sense of stability, believing this life meant no more emergencies, travel, or silence from Al.

A middle-aged customer entered seeking an exceptional fiftieth birthday bouquet for his wife. Al warmly greeted him and deferred to Martha, praising her expertise. Martha assembled a £100 bouquet with the wife’s favorite flowers, wrapped it beautifully, and watched the winter sun illuminate the shop, reinforcing her sense of gratitude and contentment.

Martha reflected on Al’s recent behavior since quitting: he had been attentive, affectionate, and especially caring with the children, notably with her younger son, Jonah. She recalled that the previous Friday, when Jonah came home ill, Al had been home and offered comfort. During a significant conversation, Jonah confided confusion about his gender identity after comments at school and seeing a classmate change pronouns.

Al responded by reassuring Jonah that any choice would be accepted and that there was no need to rush; both he and Martha would support Jonah’s decisions. Martha, who had suspected Jonah’s struggles, felt deeply moved that Jonah chose Al for this disclosure. Rather than feeling excluded, she felt vindicated in trusting Al and in giving him another chance.

As the customer left, Al looked up from the paperwork and commented on their good fortune. Martha agreed, ending the moment on a note of mutual appreciation and renewed partnership.