“Of course.”
He hesitated. “I knew who you were before this trip.”
I blinked in surprise. “You did?”
He nodded. “Your husband, Paul, used to be close friends with my brother, Steven. They met during their Navy days. I met you once decades ago at Steven’s house. You probably don’t remember. But Paul talked about you often after that. He said you were the kindest woman he’d ever known.”
My breath caught in my throat. “You’re Steven’s brother?”
He smiled gently. “Yes. I recognized your name when I saw the tour list. I wasn’t sure if it was really you at first, but when I saw you at the airport, I knew. I didn’t want to overwhelm you, so I waited until it felt right to tell you.”
I sat there speechless, my heart swelling with emotion. It felt as if life had come full circle, as if Paul, in his own way, had sent David to find me when I needed it most. David reached across the table and took my hand. “I think he’d be happy you’re finally doing something for yourself. You gave your whole life to everyone else. It’s your turn to be loved again, Linda.” Tears slid down my cheeks, but they weren’t tears of sadness. They were the kind that come when your heart is finally full. “Thank you, David,” I whispered. “For everything.”
Later that night, back at the hotel, I finally called Mark. The moment he picked up, his voice was rushed and full of questions. “Mom, where are you? Who’s that man? Are you okay?”
