One call. One hospital visit. One doctor saying, “I’m so sorry.” My life split cleanly into Before and After.
At the viewing, I felt hollow. I had cried until my skin hurt. My sister had to zip my dress because my hands wouldn’t stop shaking.
Greg looked peaceful, dressed in the navy suit I bought for our last anniversary. His hair was neatly combed. His
hands folded like he was resting.
I brought a single red rose. When I leaned in to place it between his hands, I noticed something else—a small white note tucked beneath his fingers.
Someone had placed it there without telling me.
I slipped the note into my purse and went to the restroom. When I read it, my breath caught.
“Even though we could never be together the way we deserved, my kids and I will love you forever.”
Greg and I didn’t have children.
