Harley had yearned for this sort of heart-to-heart conversation for years. It was staggering, hearing the words coming out of her fathers mouth. Was this the loving father she dimly remembered from her earliest years, before the tragedy that fractured their family? Was this the man who had read bedtime stories to her every night, taken her camping and taught her to build fires with magnesium bars and a striker, danced with her when her favorite song came on the radio?

Could this be the same man?

I cant tell you how much it means to hear you say that, she answered, her voice hitching with a sob. She fell into the crook of his arm, and he rubbed her back.

And Im sorry, too, she added as the grief welled up in her. I tried so hard to get away, to cut you out of my life, but I wasnt the only one dealing with the loss. I should have been there for you, Dad, or at least tried harder to stay in touch.

I didnt exactly make it easy on you, he murmured.

They stayed that way a few moments longer before her father gave her the trio of pats that signaled it was time to end the embrace.

They looked at one another. Dad cleared his throat, shifting uncomfortably.

You dont want to miss your flight, he said.

She sensed he had reached his limit for emotional intimacy. She didnt mind, howevershe felt closer to him than she had in years, as if an invisible wall between them had just been torn down.

She kissed the top of his head, wondering if it was the last time she would feel the warmth of his skin.

I love you, Dad.

Love you, too, Harley, he answered. Then his hand began patting the edge of his cushion, searching for the remote. Can never find the damn thing when I need it, he muttered.

Harley watched him for a few moments, wanting to prolong the sense of connection with him. When he didnt say anything or look at her, she left him to his own devices. She was done solving mysteries, at least for a few days.

In the kitchen, she found Greg leaning back with his hands planted on the counter, his ankles crossed. He offered a solemn smile when he saw her.

You owe me dinner at Rio Rojo, you know, he said.

Harley smiled sadlyshe had forgotten. Sorry, Greg. Next time I visit?

If it means Ill get to see you again in the near future, absolutely.

She nodded, thinking it would be good to stay in touch more. Then, sobered at the realization that the next time she came might very well be to bury her father, she moved closer to her brother and lowered her voice. How much longer does he have?