CHAPTER 40
NOW
NICKY
Rico and JP lead Daph back to the lot, leaving me alone with my thoughts. I stare at their retreating forms as they round the bend, waiting until they’re completely out of view before I take a seat on the bench. The sun’s almost completely set now, enveloping the entire path in darkness, save for the intermittent flickers of fireflies.
As I lean back, my right arm comes to rest along the top of the backrest while my hand drapes down to absentmindedly rub the plaque affixed to the center.
“If you’re up there,” I begin, speaking freely into the night, “I want you to know I finally get it. The happiness you always wanted me to find? She”s it. I’m gonna grab hold with both hands, and I’m not gonna let go.”
I sit a moment longer in the calming silence, my fingers gliding over the small, raised words cast within the metal. Once I’ve traced the individual letters about a dozen times, I push up from the bench, pressing a kiss to the tips of my fingers before turning to touch them to her name.
IN LOVING MEMORY OF
GAbrIELLA CONNERS
“Love you, Mom.”