“I’m sorry.”
It was the first apology he’d offered.
It was also six years too late.
I opened the door.
He looked at me one last time.
“I never thought he’d come back.”
“I did,” I said. “I just wish I hadn’t had to wait this long.”
Marcus lowered his head and walked out.
I closed the door behind him. Only then did I notice the bread rolls still scattered across the floor.
Neither of us had remembered to pick them up.
For the first time in years, it felt peaceful.
I turned toward Andrew. He was still standing exactly where he’d been when he first came in. Almost as though he wasn’t sure he belonged there.
I crossed the room slowly.
This time, I didn’t rush.
I stopped in front of him.
“May I hug you?”
He smiled through his tears.
“You never had to ask.”
