At Baggage Claim
After the plane landed, we followed the signs toward baggage claim.
My mother had sent a message saying she was waiting near carousel six.
Evelyn walked beside us, clutching the photograph.
Her confidence faded with each step toward the arrivals hall.
Jenna stood near the baggage carousel with a baby secured in a green carrier.
She resembled Evelyn around the eyes.
But her expression was guarded and tired.
Evelyn stopped several feet away.
Jenna did not approach.
“May I hug you?” Evelyn asked.
Jenna studied her.
Then nodded once.
Evelyn moved forward slowly.
The hug lasted only a few seconds.
Jenna kept one arm around her child.
Evelyn did not attempt to reach for the baby.
When they separated, Evelyn said something I could not hear.
Jenna listened.
Then she nodded once.
Neither woman smiled.
But they walked toward the baggage carousel together.
That was enough for a beginning.
