A week ago, he could never have imagined her back in his life. But then again, he could never have imagined the return of Ray Owens either. Between Stephanie, Ray, Deanna, Ann Marie, Elizabeth, and work, Chris could feel his life becoming increasingly complicated. He turned on his radio in time to hear U2’s “Beautiful Day.” Hearing it now brought Chris renewed hope about making Stephanie part of his life, and he sang along to the song. He thought of his daughter. He had agreed with Deanna’s request to switch his usual day with Ann Marie, but now realized he missed her. He would call her when he got home. His watch told him she would be asleep, and he wasn’t sure that he was prepared for a conversation with her mother right now. There was just too much going on, and he wouldn’t know where to start or what to say. At home, Chris looked around his empty apartment. He had never liked it because it felt sterile, devoid of life. He knew he hated it simply because he didn’t share it with anyone, and it had reminded him of how lost and lonely he was.
