There were folding tables, paper centerpieces, homemade casseroles, and a banner made by Paige’s children that read WELCOME HOME, EVERYONE.

I had worn a simple sweater instead of my uniform.

Patricia sat beside Helen and spent most of the meal asking practical questions about the next repair project.

She didn’t mention Donald.

She didn’t ask anyone to excuse what had happened.

She passed serving dishes and listened when Samuel spoke about the families we’d helped.

When it was my turn to speak, I had prepared a page of remarks.

I thanked the board for making transparent financial practices part of its work.