A Day at the Park

"Mommy, we go park, please, please," Ender said, his eyes sparkling with excitement as he dragged Ashley's hand towards the door. Ashley couldn't help but laugh at her son's enthusiasm. After the emotional morning they had just shared, she was grateful for the distraction. "Okay, buddy, let's go to the park," she said, smiling down at Ender. Alex stood up from the couch, grabbing his keys and wallet. "I'll come too," he said, falling into step beside them. "We can make a day of it." As they walked out the door, Ashley felt a sense of freedom she hadn't experienced in weeks. The sunshine and fresh air were just what she needed to clear her head and lift her spirits. Ender was bubbling with excitement, chattering nonstop about the swings and slides and what games he wanted to play. At the park, Ender ran ahead, racing towards the playground with a joyful whoop. Ashley and Alex followed more slowly, watching as their son explored the equipment. Ashley couldn't help but feel a pang of nostalgia as she watched Ender play. This was what life was supposed to be like, not stuck in a hospital bed or worrying about cancer treatment. As Ender climbed up the ladder to the slide, Alex took Ashley's hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "You're doing great, Ash," he said, his eyes warm with support. "I'm proud of you." Ashley smiled, feeling a surge of love and gratitude towards her husband. "Thanks, Alex," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "Just being here with you and Ender makes me feel better." Ender whooped with delight as he slid down the slide, his laughter carrying across the park. Ashley and Alex sat down on a nearby bench, watching as their son played. For a few hours, they forgot about the cancer and the treatment and the Grammy's. They just existed in the moment, enjoying each other's company and the simple pleasures of life. As the afternoon wore on, Ender began to tire, his energy flagging as the sun started to set. Ashley and Alex exchanged a glance, and then Alex stood up, scooping Ender into his arms. "Time to go home, buddy," he said, his voice gentle. Ender nodded, snuggling into Alex's chest. "Okay," he said, his voice sleepy. Ashley stood up, taking Ender's hand as they walked back to the car. As they drove home, Ender fell asleep in the backseat, exhausted from their day at the park. Ashley turned to Alex, her eyes shining with tears. "Thank you for today," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. Alex smiled, reaching out to take her hand. "Anytime, Ash," he said. "We'll get through this, together."