Amber had been through many failed relationships and had eventually stopped looking for “the one.” But when she least expected it, someone special entered her life.
It happened at a barbecue hosted by her dad, where she met Steve, one of his friends. Steve was ten years older than her, but they quickly connected. She felt a warmth and ease around him she hadn’t felt before. Soon, they started dating, and her dad was thrilled to see her with a man like Steve, who was compassionate and genuinely cared for others.
Six months later, Steve proposed. Their wedding was everything Amber had dreamed of—the perfect venue, food, and gown. But above all, she felt joy in marrying Steve. Surrounded by friends and family, she couldn’t have been happier. Later that night, after they moved into their new home, Amber stepped out briefly to change. When she returned, she noticed Steve quietly talking to someone.
There was no phone in sight, and as she listened closely, she heard him mention the name “Stacey.” Worried, she gently asked who he was speaking to. With a heavy heart, Steve explained that Stacey was his late daughter, who had passed away in a car accident years ago. He still felt her presence, especially on important days like this. He admitted he hadn’t told Amber about Stacey earlier, afraid she might pull away.
Amber understood the depth of his loss and reassured him of her support. She knew the pain of losing a child never fully fades. Wanting to help, she suggested they seek therapy together, and Steve agreed.
In that moment, Amber’s love for Steve grew. She realised that to truly love someone meant to embrace their entire story—the joy and the sorrow. For Amber, accepting Steve also meant honouring Stacey’s memory and helping him heal.