Chapter 12: The Test of Time
Two years passed quietly. The auto shop expanded, with Marcus taking Jax on as a full partner. The grease-stained motorcycle in the garage was no longer Jax's primary mode of transport; it sat beside a reliable family station wagon used for grocery runs and school trips.
Leo grew taller, his hazel eyes retaining their brightness, but his posture reflecting the steady confidence of a child who knew he was safe.
One afternoon, an unexpected letter arrived at the shop. It was from Lara's sister, Clara, who had cut off contact with Jax years ago after he walked out.
Jax met her at a local coffee shop in town. Clara sat across from him, her arms crossed, her eyes inspecting the changes in the man sitting before her.
"I came here expecting to find a disaster, Jax," Clara said honestly. "I came to take Leo if things were bad."
May you like
Jax didn't get angry. He nodded slowly. "You had every right to think that, Clara. I failed her."
Clara looked at him for a long time, noticing the calm maturity in his eyes, the absence of the restless edge he used to carry. "Lara knew you'd step up. I thought she was foolishly optimistic... but it seems she was right about you."
