Luca washed the dishes I hadn’t gotten to yet while Ali attempted to address his suggestion with Alessia. He asked who she wanted to live with, but I stopped the discussion before it even began. Don’t get me wrong. I want to discuss this. I want my children to want to live with me. But this situation needs to be handled delicately because it has the potential to spiral out of control, especially after our little argument the other day.
“Ali? I said we’ll discuss it later, ok? The child wants cake, so let’s do cake.”
Everyone stared at me like they were surprised. I didn’t raise my voice or anything, so what shocked them? Whatever. I put the tofurkey down, and we all prepared to make a great ruckus for Alessia 4.0. From the moment I learned of her existence, I knew we’d be in for a wild ride with this one. I was sick for almost my entire pregnancy, and I thought she hated me already. And when she was born, finally, she cried a lot, and I felt like I was not enough for her. Version 2.0 brought me to my knees. The toddler days are already trying enough, but dealing with her fussiness on top of grief and the drama I created, she broke me. But then she grew up, and I had to experience the 3rd edition from a distance. We’ve had some tense moments, but nothing will ever affect the immense love I have for her. I love her so so much, and I want us to be close just like Mommy and me. Bring on version 4.0!
Alessia blew with all her might but could not blow out the candles in one breath like Luca did. We cheered her on as she tried again with even greater fervor. Heh, if she goes the sport route for real, that competitive spirit will be a significant advantage. She knocked out all the candles and made some space before the age-up powers took over. Ali and Luca were still cheering as she walked away, looking back at me, smiling. I knew we shared a special connection! It’s different from the connection I share with Luca, but it’s there and it’s ours. I’m so excited!
I smiled back and told her I loved her. Within a blink of an eye, my little girl was gone, and a young lady with Ali’s whole face stood before us.
