Chapter 10 - Where the Sunshine Stays
One year after the flight that was supposed to end my life, the sun was setting over the rolling hills of Maplewood Grove, painting the sky in breathtaking shades of violet, amber, and gold.
The estate garden was bathed in a warm, ethereal light.
In the center of the lawn stood a beautiful new memorial garden dedicated to my father, Thomas Solomon. A granite bench sat beneath a blooming cherry blossom tree, surrounded by white roses and lavender.
I sat on the bench, holding a cup of warm tea.
Owen walked over, wearing a sweater, and sat down beside me. He leaned his head comfortably against my shoulder, his small arm wrapping around my waist.
"Mom?" Owen asked softly, looking up at the blooming cherry blossom branches.
"Yes, my brave boy?" I answered, wrapping my arm tightly around him, pulling him close against my side.
"Do you think Grandpa can see us?"
I smiled, looking up at the brilliant golden sky, feeling my father's presence so strongly in the warm evening breeze, in the strength of my company, and in the bright, clear eyes of my son.
"I know he can, Owen," I whispered, pressing a tender kiss against his forehead. "He’s watching over us right now. And he is so, so proud of you."
Owen smiled, a peaceful, contented expression settling over his face. He looked at the house, where light streamed through every window, illuminating a home that was safe, whole, and filled with love.
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"I love you, Mom," Owen said clearly, his voice ringing like a bell in the quiet twilight.
"I love you too, Owen," I replied, holding my son close against my heart as the stars began to twinkle softly across the night sky. "More than all the words in the world."
