Page 54

I slowly climb out of bed, avoiding waking Sarah.

After leaving the cemetery, we came to the hotel we’re staying at. I held Sarah in my arms as she let out a waterfall of tears in the bath. Once she exhausted herself, I helped her dress in a baggy tee then tucked her into bed.

She was fast asleep within seconds of her head meeting the pillow.

I quietly dress then place a soft kiss on her forehead.

Stepping out into the hallway, I make my way to the elevator.

* * *

I clear my throat and slip my hands into my pockets.

XANDER JAMES WILKSON – AUGUST 1995 to NOVEMBER 2021.

THOMAS RAY WILKSON – APRIL 1997 to NOVEMBER 2021.

RONALD SAWYER WILKSON – JUNE 1999 to NOVEMBER 2021.

COLSON ADAM WILKSON – JANUARY 2001 to NOVEMBER 2021.

Each have ‘BELOVED brOTHER. LOST BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN’ etched below their names.

One moment – one decision, altered the course of Sarah’s life forever.

“I wish I had the chance to meet the men who meant everything to the love of my life. A part of me wishes I could turn back time and prevent Sarah from losing you, but then that would mean I’d never get the chance to meet her – to love her.” I remove a hand and swipe it down my mouth.

“And that’s not something I’m willing to trade.” I study the headstones with a frown. “I love your sister with everything in me. I hope that if you were here, you’d give me your blessing.”

I swallow the lump in my throat and lick my lips. “I will spend the rest of forever loving her, taking care of her, and showing her that it’s okay to move on even when it hurts.

Because if you’re anything like the men Sarah says you were, you’d want her to be happy and live her life.”

I take the small velvet box from my pocket and open it. A small smile lifts the corner of my mouth as I take in the oval-shaped sapphire set on a simple silver band.

“So, on the off chance that you’re listening.” I tilt my head to the sky. “I’d really like to have your blessing to marry your sister.”

An odd sensation forms in my chest. I’m not sure what to make of it.

I don’t feel uneasy or anxious. Just… aware.

Yeah, that’s it. Awareness has me glancing around. I feel as though there are eyes on me.

“I promise to bring her back as often as we can, and I promise that whenever we have children, they will know you.”

With that, I walk down the path toward my bike.

Straddling it, I shove on my helmet. As I’m strapping it under my chin, I pause.

What the fuck?

I squint, trying to see if my eyes are playing tricks.

I swear I see 4 tall figures standing where Sarah’s brothers rest.

Warm fills my chest.

I have their blessing.