Several months later, we gathered for a family photograph.
Abby and Layla wore matching sweaters, and I held one granddaughter while Hannah cradled the other.
Afterward, Lucas noticed his old green coat hanging near the door.
He touched the stitching beside the pocket.
“You still remember fixing this?” he asked.
“Of course,” I replied. “You complained that my stitches were crooked.”
He smiled faintly.Study Biology
“I wore it anyway.”
Then his expression changed.
“I should’ve come home sooner.”
“Yes,” I said honestly. “You should have.”
He hugged me.
Before leaving, he promised to call that evening.
At seven o’clock, my phone rang.Plan Family Trips
“Hi, Mom,” he said.
I could hear Layla fussing in the background as Lucas tried to comfort her. He asked me about my day, told me about his work, and promised we’d arrange another visit soon.
I listened to my son talking to me, and for the first time in three years, I felt something I had almost forgotten.
