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She stared at me, her eyes filling with tears, and then she nodded. Slowly, almost reverently, she handed the letter to me. “Will you read it for us?” she asked.
How could I say no?
I took the envelope, feeling the creases and worn edges beneath my fingers. After a deep breath, I unfolded the letter, smoothing out the crumpled paper.
Dad’s handwriting was shaky but familiar, the words scrawled in uneven lines.
Everyone—
Before I say anything else,please know how deeply proud I am of each of you.
To my wonderful daughter, Bessie, you’ve blossomed into such a strong, remarkable woman. The life you’ve created fills my heart with pride, and I couldn’t be happier with the man you chose to spend it with. Eric, you’ve been the anchor your family needed. I couldn’t have wished for a better son-in-law.
To my grandson, Jason—what a bright and spirited boy you are. It breaks my heart that I won’t be there to watch you grow, but I have no doubt you’ll be the best and excel in whatever path you choose. I know you’ll make all of us so proud.
To Neil, my son, I’ve always been in awe of you.
I was chokedup and had to stop a moment—Mom reaching over to touch my hand. We exchanged glances, and she nodded her encouragement, so clearing my throat, I carried on.
Watchingyou become the sheriff and the man you are today has been one of my greatest joys. I know I didn’t handle things well when you came out to us, and I regret that deeply. I’m so sorry for the hurt I caused. You deserve nothing less than a love that fills you with joy, the way your mom has filled my life with happiness. I know you’ll find that person, and I’ll be cheering you on, wherever I am.
And my beautiful wife, Chloe. My love, you’ve been my rock, my safe harbor in every storm. Even when the light in my mind started to dim, you were there, unwavering. I love you more than words could ever express, and it pains me to say goodbye like this. If you’re reading this, then we both know it’s time. The world feels overwhelming now, and I’m ready to moveinto the assisted living Dr. Bennington spoke to us about. Please know that I’m at peace with this decision. I’m not afraid, and I’m happy knowing you all will be okay.
I love you all so much. More than you’ll ever know.
It’s time.
When I finished reading,the room was thick with emotion, my mom crying, Bessie holding her hand. None of us spoke for a moment, letting the weight of Dad’s words settle in, and then we walked outside, needing the fresh air and the open space. The three of us huddled together, arms wrapped around each other, and let the tears fall. It was the kind of grief that couldn’t be contained and had to be let out, and we didn’t hold back.
As we separated, Eric waited with Jason beside him. Connor was there, too. I hadn’t expected Connor to come, but seeing him there, solid and steady, made something inside me relax.
“What are you doing here?” I asked him.
“I thought I could help,” he murmured, unsure. In a moment of madness, I grabbed his hand and tugged him toward Mom.
“Mum, you know Connor,” I said, my voice rough with emotion, thinking of my dad’s words.
“Hello, Connor,” she said with a smile.
“He’s my…” I paused and glanced at him. The big idiot just smiled at me.
“Boyfriend. I’m his boyfriend.”
Bessie nodded, stepping forward to hug Connor. “It’s about time,” she whispered.
Connor smiled at her, returning the hug with one arm, the other hand resting on my back. It was a simple gesture, but it meant everything. Whatever came next, I knew we’d face it as a family, with Connor included, for as long as we were together.
Maybe forever.
Who knew.
We stood there for a long time, all of us, wrapped in the warmth of each other’s presence. It wasn’t going to be easy, and the road ahead was full of uncertainty. But for now, we had an idea of what happened next. And that had to be enough.
Chapter Twenty-One
CONNOR
Neil waswith his mom and Bessie, and he said he’d be okay with them alone. They had things to talk about and final decisions to be made. When he left my side, he kissed me and held onto me for the longest time, and I didn’t know what to do.
