Hearing the voices of old friends, he walked toward an open patio door. As he stepped outside, T.J. saw a beautiful woman in the shadows, standing apart from the rest. He walked toward her and called out her name. She turned. She smiled through tears. To his disbelief, she was at his side in a heartbeat, reaching out and then hugging him.
He stood there silently and accepted her embrace, relishing it. When they stepped apart, they looked at each other and waited, uncertain about where, or how, to begin.
“It...it’s good to see you, T.J.”
“You too, Lindy.”
He led her to a small bench that was tucked away in a corner of the patio. He sat next to her, not touching, but only inches apart. “This is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do. Coming home to bury Jack is beyond my comprehension.”
“I know. This can’t be real.”
“I…I loved Jack. He was the brother I never had. I’ve lost my best friend.”
Lindy took his hand. “All you can do is remember Jack as the wonderful person he was, and be there for Becka and the kids.”
“You’re right, of course. I’ll do my best. This can’t be easy for you either. Jack and your other losses. I was so sorry to hear about Rae Ann and Rick. I wish I could have been there, but it was impossible to get out of Hong Kong in time for the services. I want you to know I tried.”
“Thank you. Yes, things have been pretty rough lately. James took his parents’ deaths very hard. That’s why I moved back to Indiana, to Kenfield, after I adopted him. We both need the support of family and close friends.”
“Becka tells me you’re working at Kenfield Memorial. That you earned your nursing degree on the west coast. I’m betting you’re a wonderful nurse, Lindy.”
“Well, I love my job. It’s hard sometimes, working in pediatrics—in the NICU. But it’s meaningful.”
“James seems like a great kid. Reminds me of Rick.”
“You met James?”
“Sure. Your dad introduced us upstairs. Lindy? You’re shivering. Let me give you my jacket.”
“Thanks. Yes, James is a very special kid. He…” Lindy suddenly switched gears. “How long do you plan to stay in Clarkson Grove?”
