Chapter 8
Daniel’s doorbell rings at just after nine in the morning. He isn’t expecting anyone, but goes into the hallway and opens the door.
Gustav is standing there beaming, holding a plastic bag. As usual he looks fit and fresh; he is wearing black activewear, which suggests that he is off to the gym.
Daniel has never needed to doubt that Ida was searching for a completely different life from the one they shared together—he only has to look at Gustav. He is ten years younger than Daniel, works as a ski guide, and loves the outdoor life and all kinds of outdoor activities.
Daniel has never seen him look remotely stressed or tired.
Alice comes running and breaks into a big smile when she sees who it is.
“Gustav!” She holds out her arms for him to pick her up.
Daniel instinctively takes a step forward to stop her, then realizes what he is doing. Instead he stays where he is while Gustav swings Alice around and around in the air, reducing her to helpless laughter.
He puts her down and hands the bag to Daniel.
“Ida asked me to drop this off on the way to the gym. It’s Alice’s favorite dress. She’s worn it almost every day this week.”
Daniel manages a stiff little smile and takes the bag.
It was nice of Ida to send the dress; Alice has already asked about it this morning, but as always Gustav’s presence puts him in a bad mood.
Why does he get to be an important person to Alice, someone she smiles at, when Daniel has to miss out on half of his daughter’s life?
Gustav should have his own kids if he wants to play Daddy.
“Thanks,” he says, desperate for Gustav to leave.
He honestly wishes he could be happy that Ida has met someone who is nice and cares about Alice, but it feels like a stab in the heart whenever he sees Ida and Gustav pushing Alice along in her stroller.
She’s my daughter, he wants to yell at Gustav. Stay away from her!
Instead he just turns away and heads in a different direction.
It is equally painful every single time.