Chapter 12

They wandered along the shaded paths, hand in hand. Once they got to the Jacksons’ markers, William and Sharon Jacksonstamped across plain brass and stone, they stopped. Chris stood behind Anna, arms wrapped around her middle and chin nestled on her shoulder.

The vase at the head of the stone held Shasta daisies, only slightly wilted. Nick’s doing, most likely. Anna’s relationship with her parents had been strained. Bill and Sharon had tried their best to support their daughter, but while they had never outright condemned her, they’d never fully understood or accepted her, either. Maria and Nick had not approved of Anna’s treatment, but since their passing, Nick made a point to ensure their graves were properly kept up.

Anna sighed and leaned her head against Chris’. “I miss them. Is that what I’m supposed to say?”

Chris pulled her closer. “You aren’t supposed to say anything, if you don’t want to.”