Chapter 9 - Rebuilding from the Ashes
A month later, the snow began to melt, giving way to the pale green shoots of early spring.
I walked up the front path of 742 Elmwood Lane. For the first time in my life, I didn't feel a pit of anxiety in my stomach as I approached the front door.
I unlocked the door with my own key and stepped inside. The house was quiet, clean, and warm.
Diane was sitting in the living room near the large bay window, reading a book. When she heard my footsteps, she set the book down and stood up. She looked rested. The chaotic storm that had surrounded Madison for years had finally cleared out of her life, leaving a peaceful, quiet routine behind.
"Claire," Diane said softly. "You came."
"I brought the quarterly trust statements," I said, setting my briefcase on the coffee table. "The estate manager verified that all the house utility bills and property insurance premiums have been paid for the year."
Diane walked over, her eyes filled with a soft, hesitant light. "Thank you, Claire. For... for everything."
She pulled out a chair at the dining table—the same table where, two months ago, my place setting had been swept into the trash.
May you like
Sitting in the center of the table was a fresh vase of yellow daffodils. Beside it was a single, beautifully set place setting—a porcelain plate, polished silverware, and a crystal glass.
"I keep it set every day," Diane whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. "Just in case you decide to drop by."
