“Oh, I remember what those days were like. My late wife and I were romantics too. Those first years of marriage were heaven on Earth,” he said, a smile on his face.

“What was her name, Dave?” Mia asked.

“Ellen. She was a beauty, I tell ya. Beautiful auburn hair, porcelain skin, full rosy lips and the best laugh I’ve ever heard. She was something else.”

“When did she die?” Evie asked, suddenly.

“Evie! I’m so sorry, sir,” Kate said, giving her daughter a look.

“Aw, no, that’s alright. It’s a valid question, young lady. She died thirty-two years ago.”

Everyone stopped talking for a moment, until Evie popped up again.

“Did you ever get married again?”

“No, ma’am, I surely didn’t. You see, when you’ve found the love of your life, there’s no need to look for anyone else. Nobody could’ve measured up to my Ellen.”

“So, you’ve spent all these years alone?”

“I have friends back home, of course. And two nieces who still look in on me every week. My church friends have become like family too.”

“But no wife or even a girlfriend? Doesn’t that get lonely?” Evie prodded. Mia had never seen a kid her age asking so many personal questions. It was kind of making her uncomfortable, except that she wanted to know the answers from Dave too. Curiosity is a strong feeling.

“Evie…” Kate growled under her breath. Mia could certainly see a dynamic between Kate and her daughter. Evie was always pushing past the limits, and Kate was trying to drag her back. Entertaining to watch, but probably tough on her sister.

“It’s really fine. I like an inquisitive kid. Makes me have hope for the future of this world. No wife or girlfriend, but I live a happy life. And I love coming here every May.”

“Why May?” Evie asked as she slathered apple butter on her biscuit, but not before smelling the sweet substance.

Dave smiled, a faraway look in his eyes. “Back when we were kids, my Ellen and I actually met at a summer camp here. We were just twelve years old, but I remember it like it was yesterday. Because both of our mothers also worked at the camp, we had to come a couple of weeks early to help set things up. May fifteenth was the first day I set eyes on the love of my life. She was standing by the water, skipping rocks across like a professional. I was so impressed. Of course, this structure we’re in wasn’t built until years later. We were in a large cabin that used to sit right on this spot, though. So, it just feels like home when I come here and look out at the still waters of the lake. I can be with Ellen when I’m here.”