A New Beginning
“Tess, you’re right. I never truly understood what you wanted. I’m sorry, and thank you.”
He finally exited with dignity, and I, too, finally ended this endless tug-of-war, ready to restart my own life.
A year later, I returned home. My first stop was to visit the orphanage and Ms. Grey. The orphanage was just as warm as I remembered. Laughter and playful shouts from the children echoed the yard.
When she saw me, her smile was gentle and kind. “Tess, it’s good to have you back.”
We sat on the wooden chairs in the courtyard and caught up.