At church one Sunday, Lucy grabbed Natalie’s arm. “We’re going to Great-Grandpa’s eightieth birthday soon. Please come with us, Grandma.”
“I’m not sure he’d want me there.”
“I think you should come with us,” Chris chimed in.
“If you’re sure he won’t mind, I’ll come.”
For two weeks Natalie struggled with her nerves. Just listen. Don’t talk about the past. Don’t expect anything. Be respectful. He’s no different from anyone else.
Fortunately, Lilly prattled away beside her, in the back-seat, all the way to Newcastle. Then, they arrived. The old house was now painted white instead of pink and the number of flower beds had been cut back, but it was still her old home. Natalie followed Lucy to the front door. Delyth opened it and welcomed Natalie with a huge smile and a hug. She heard her mother say, under her breath, “My baby’s back.”
Gwyn staggered out on his arthritic legs. He opened his arms to her. “It’s grand to have you home, love.”
Natalie buried herself in his loving arms, hiding the tears she couldn’t hold back.
She looked up to see Karen coming toward her, a smile on her face, John and two grown-up children trailing behind her.
She wasn’t alone after all. She loved them all. This was her family.
“Happy birthday, Dad.”
Parallel Lives Page 32