Nathaniel’s business continued to demand attention, yet he had become more deliberate about where he spent his hours.

The center named after Caroline was settling into its first full year, led by people whose expertise made it stronger than any single donor’s ideas.

Ruth visited often, and the great house finally had reason for its kitchen lights to be on after sundown.

Sophie returned holding a fallen yellow petal in her palm.

“Look,” she said.

“It got blown off, but it’s still pretty.”

Hannah took her hand.

Nathaniel smiled, and together they continued along the path.

The moment was not a grand finale.

It was an ordinary afternoon, freely enjoyed.

That, Nathaniel thought, might have been the greatest change of all.