Dad put his plate in the sink then gave Mom a kiss on the cheek. After over forty years of marriage, they still looked like they had that spark. Now that was special. He’d never thought much about how Mom and Dad got along. Dad was opinionated, and he had a lot of rules, but somehow the two of them had always seemed happy. There were never any arguments between them. She supported his dreams, and he supported hers, even putting up with all the horses when he didn’t even ride.

Will I ever have that? Would there ever be anyone other than Kelly who really got him? Someone who understood his hopes and dreams the way she had? Had he missed out on the only true chance of happiness that he’d be offered in this lifetime?

The corner of Mom’s mouth lifted, but her lips pulled tight, like she might cry. “I couldn’t be happier.” She clutched her heart. “This has been a long time coming—the two of you being civil again. I didn’t think I’d ever see the day. All of us together for a meal, and it isn’t even a holiday. See, sometimes things that seem impossible just take an open mind, and an open heart.” She patted Andrew on the back. “Think about that. Anything is possible.”

“You’re right. I’m sorry I let it go on so long.” He stepped over and gave her a hug.

“I can’t believe you’re already going,” she said. “It’s been so nice having you around.”

“I’m really glad I came back.” This trip had offered unexpected benefits. He looked over at his dad, his heart filled with pride. “I promise I won’t stay away so long again.”

“I hope not,” Dad said.

Andrew hugged Dawn, then grabbed his suitcase and stepped out onto the porch.

“And drive careful,” Dad said.

“Yes, sir. I was just checking on the weather,” Andrew said. “Looks like things have cleared out since you came through Pennsylvania.”

“Good. That was a mess. Text or call when you get to where you’re stopping.”

Mom jumped in. “Yes, please let us know you’re okay.”

“I can do that.” He hugged Mom, then Dad. “Thank you both for everything. I love you.”

They stood on the front porch, waving, as he put his suitcase in the car.

He pulled out of the driveway with an extraordinary void in his chest.

Andrew took the back roads toward Main Street, hoping he might catch another glimpse of Kelly walking Gray across the street like that first day he’d hit town. Customers were coming out of The Cake Factory when he drove by. He could picture Kelly standing behind the counter, a relaxed smile on her face as she greeted them.