We spoke more directly now.

We made practical plans for difficult days.

We allowed friends to help without turning every offer into an obligation.

And when we had nothing useful to say, we sat together quietly, knowing silence could be comfort instead of avoidance.

One evening the power flickered during a storm.

Lucas fetched his flashlight and announced, “I’ve got it.” Rachel laughed.

I had missed that sound more than I knew.

PART 13