It should be enough to know that there were other versions where the love between them was that of real family, but Jermey knew that it wasn't so easy. He knew perfectly well that one bad experience could sour things for a lot longer and a lot worse than this time had. All in all, they were probably lucky.
"Just be aware that it was a different life and you'll manage it," he assured before letting her go. "And you'll find, I think, that they're surprisingly nice to have."
Jeremy had only ever had a son, and even that wasn't always the case. Clayton had come into his life in a strange way. As Ella had. And she was a very welcome addition. "Bring her here."