“It was time.” Unity sipped her tea. “I’m seeing a therapist. A good one. She’s helping me through the grief and I’m learning about all the ways I didn’t handle it well the first time around. It’s work and it’s painful, but I’m getting stronger and more grounded. I’m still swimming.”

“Excellent.”

Dagmar talked about what had been happening in Silver Pines. There were several new residents and a few moves into assisted living. Unity listened politely, trying to work up the courage to ask about Thaddeus.

She still thought about him, missed him, wanted him, but she knew she wasn’t ready. She’d put him through so much—she was determined not to see him again until she could offer herself as someone ready to be in a healthy, adult relationship. Assuming he was still interested.

“I admire you for not asking,” Dagmar said unexpectedly. “It would have been my first question.”

Unity didn’t pretend to misunderstand. “I’m not sure I have the right to know and I’m scared the news will be bad.”

“What defines bad news?”

“That he’s in love with someone else.”

“Was he ever in love with you?”

“I don’t know. I doubt it.” But she hoped. Or if not love, then maybe enough interest so that he would give her another chance.

“Thaddeus and I have made a pact to never discuss his love life again,” Dagmar told her. “And I have promised to never get involved with it. I’m sorry to tell you, Unity, he’s cut me off and I don’t know a thing.”

Not exactly what she wanted to hear, then reminded herself it would all be fine. She had a plan.

“What’s your time frame?” Dagmar asked. “To go see him?”

“When the house closes. Once that part of my past is behind me, I’ll be ready.”

“Are you sure?”

“No, but I’m done waiting to live my life.”

Dagmar squeezed her hand. “Good for you, child. Good for you.”

Ellen waited outside of security at SeaTac Airport. Cooper had surprised her by texting her to ask if she would pick him up at the airport. She’d immediately agreed, eager to see him.

She watched as passengers filed out, on their way to baggage claim. According to the app on her phone, his flight had reached the gate a few minutes ago. He should be—

She waved when she spotted him. Coop saw her and grinned, then broke into a run. When he reached her, he grabbed her around the waist and swung her around.

“Mom! You’re here. I’m so glad to be back. Two weeks was too long. How’s everything? Did you miss me? Can we have meatloaf for dinner?”

She laughed and hung on to him, then stepped back. “You’re taller.”

He grinned. “It was two weeks. I can’t be taller.”

“You look taller. Yes on the meatloaf. I’ve already bought everything for it. I knew you’d want that tonight.” Because it was his favorite after-a-trip food. She had no idea why, but there it was.