It was twenty to two.

Wade drew himself up and smoothed the lapels of his dark gray suit.

“The main hall doors open in ten minutes.”

“I’m ready,” I said.

Helen touched my sleeve gently with her fingertips.

“Margaret would be so proud of how brave you’re being today, Tom.”

I looked down at my brass wedding band, then ran my thumb over the smooth metal.

“She laid this path forty-five years ago, Helen,” I said.