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They strolled the paved circular path of Tribal Park, passing beneath angled steel sculptures that honored Navajo war veterans.
“Have you seen your cousin?” Ben asked.
“Not yet. Gia and I plan to visit him this afternoon.” Caleb paused. “What about…the situation at Old Joe’s place?”
His grandfather’s gaze lifted to the sandstone arch. “Chief Nez interviewed everyone. His official report states you and Zach were lured there by a false lead and ambushed. You acted to save Jennie and prevent Gia’s abduction.”
Two women walking along the path greeted Ben as they passed. Caleb nodded respectfully.
“Of course,” Ben continued, “the FBI could still open their own investigation.”
“They won’t,” Caleb said. “They’ve got bigger problems than two dead cartel soldiers.”
“Hmm.” Ben sighed. “After this, I may have to endorse the chief for president when my term ends.”
Caleb’s lips curled.
Politics were the same everywhere.
“So, this cartel leader who was after Gia—is he dead?” Ben asked.
“Yes. And Espina Negra has no further interest in her.”
Caleb squinted into the sun, then glanced at his grandfather, an uncharacteristic flutter of nerves striking him. “Which means Gia’s presence isn’t a threat to the Navajo. She’d like to stay.”
“We need her,” Ben answered without hesitation. “I’ll speak to the medical director.”
They stopped walking. Ben’s gaze turned warm, holding a flicker of hope. “And you, Grandson?”
Caleb’s throat swelled. The past couldn’t be undone, but it didn’t have to define his future.
“I’d like to stay, too.”
Ben’s expression remained neutral, though Caleb swore the elder’s eyes misted. “I’m glad.”
“I’m sorry, Grandfather.” Caleb’s apology had layers to it. “I read Mom’s journals. I understand now.”
Silence.
Then, “I should have tried harder.” The sadness in Ben’s voice—and on his face—finally pushed Caleb to acknowledge his grandfather’s pain.
“You did the best you could. So did she.”
“And so did you.” Ben’s voice was gruff. “I’m proud of the man you’ve become.”
His grandfather’s praise hit a part of him long buried.
Caleb blinked back sudden tears.
Ben gestured to the silver and turquoise bracelet peeking from beneath Caleb’s sleeve.
“I gave that one to Lillie.” He smiled. “I have others, when you’re ready.”
They’d come full circle, back to the Code Talker monument.
“I have duties to attend to,” Ben said. “Perhaps we can have dinner together soon?”
“I’d like that.” Caleb turned to go.