Later that night, he asked in a small voice,
“So… what happens now?”
I knew what he was really asking.
Are you leaving too? Are we still family?
I answered without hesitation.
“I’m here. Always.”
And I meant it.
I supported him through grief while carrying my own.
I paid for his application fees, attended every milestone, and cheered louder than anyone at his graduation.
I helped him prepare for job interviews, choose his first professional clothes, and face adulthood with confidence.
Everything his father would have done—I did.
On graduation day, Nathan handed me a small box.
Inside was a silver necklace engraved with one word: Strength.
I wore it every day afterward.
Including the day he got married.
The wedding took place at a beautiful vineyard, bright and elegant.
I arrived early, dressed carefully, the necklace resting against my collarbone.
I had met his fiancée, Melissa, before.
She was intelligent, composed, and surrounded by a close, loving family.
Both parents together. Siblings nearby. Weekly dinners.
A complete picture.
As I found my seat, Melissa approached me.
Her tone was gentle, her smile practiced.
