EPILOGUE
GRAMPS
The candles glow on the dining table as the last grandchild is settled in their seat. Glancing around the dark oak, a sense of satisfaction fills my heart. My family is together again.
“You gonna cry, old man?” Greta teases, leaning into me.
“Maybe… I'm not afraid to shed a tear.”
“Oh, I know. I remember Game 7 of the World Series when your team lost in that double play during a rally.”
“Now that's just cruel. Why would you bring that up on such a joyous evening?”
“Because it's my team that won.”
“Rub it in, why don’t you?” Shaking my head at her antics, I clear my throat, preparing to say a little something before we dig into the Christmas feast laid out before us.
“Family dinners are important in the Caldwell family. Most of us still get together every Sunday to enjoy time together, but not everybody is always able to make it.”
“Everyone has busy lives these days, and that's okay. Life is all about change. About growth. And I'm so proud of each and every one of my grandchildren for what they've accomplished. You've made an old man proud.”
“Grandpa…” Kennedy blinks away her tears.
“It's true. Suitor’s Crossing is a special place. We know that. Heart sparks are always at play. Even if some haven't always believed in their power.” I look at a few of my grandsons who used to think that way.
“This Christmas, my entire family is here. From grandkids to great-grandkids. Greta and I couldn't be happier. We love you.”
A round of love yous travel around the table before I clap my hands with a smile. “Merry Christmas, now, let’s eat!”