The Lies Behind Her Marriage novel Chapter 191

Alisa’s therapist managed their group and sat down with them. She said, “This is our Family Affirmation Circle. In this activity, we practice using kind words and noticing strengths. Parents, I’d like you to hold your child’s hands, look at them, and tell them one thing you appreciate about them. This way, our children will understand what healthy support sounds like. Let’s start with Mr. Thorne.”

Nathaniel first held Alisa’s hand. He smiled. “Ali… I’m proud of how brave you are. Even when things feel loud or confusing, you still try. You don’t give up. I’m sorry I wasn’t always there to see how strong you are. But I see you now.”

That made Serena’s chest tighten a little, but she simply smiled and continued to observe.

When Nathaniel held Bastin’s hand, he said, “Bastin, I love how protective you are of your sister. You always make sure she’s okay. Thank you for watching over Ali while I wasn’t around.”

“Sure thing, Dad!” Bastin proudly replied.

When it was Serena’s turn, she said to Alisa, “Baby, I love how your mind works. You notice details no one else sees. You make the world more interesting.”

Turning to Bastin, Serena said, “And Bastin, you make everything brighter. Even on my hardest days, you find a way to make me laugh. Thank you, my love.”

“You are welcome, Mommy!” Sebastian said, beaming.

When it was the children’s turn, Sebastian said, “I like Mommy and Daddy when we live together.”

Alisa nodded eagerly. Her eyes sparkled as she spoke, “I...I -"

"You can do it, Ali," the therapist encouraged.

Alisa turned to Nathaniel and said, "I like it when Daddy stays.”

Sebastian added, “Daddy loves Mommy.”

“When Daddy’s home, it feels safer,” he continued.

Alisa nodded again. She hugged Nathaniel and looked at him. “I love Daddy.”

“Me too!” Sebastian exclaimed. “I didn’t know I had a daddy before, so I’m very happy.”

Serena did not know when it happened, but Nathaniel wept. Although he sniffed it away quickly and wiped the corners of his eyes, everyone saw.

Nathaniel hugged both the kids and kissed their cheeks. “Daddy loves Ali and Bastin.”

Serena cried too. Even the therapist was moved to tears.

There was something so natural, so pure in the children’s words that deeply touched them.

Next, the therapist asked Serena and Nathaniel to say good things about each other.

Nathaniel spoke first. “Serena, you are the strongest woman I know. You survived your past without letting it define you or our children. You carried this family when I didn’t. Now that I'm here, let me carry it for you.”

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify