Page 41 of Gage

He laughed. “Helen just left. She already knew I was going to paint the trim.”

I narrowed my eyes. “What do you mean she just left? Did something happen while I was gone?”

“No, sweetheart,” he said as he climbed down the ladder. “I invited her over for lunch.”

My stomach clenched. “Were you in pain?”

“No.” He gave me an amused look. “I had her over for lunch because I like her. And she likes me.”

I stared at him. “Did you just say you like her? And she likes you?”

“Yes.”

A slow grin spread across my face. “Dad, that’s wonderful! I’ll get my things together and move back home so you two can have the house to yourselves.”

“No, you won’t,” he said firmly. “You’re staying right here. I’m going over to Helen’s for dinner. I might stay the night. I’ll call and let you know.”

I was sure my face turned as red as a firetruck. I could feel the heat creeping up my neck.

“Okay then,” I stammered. “I guess I’ll get busy working on my story. I still have to name it.”

He tilted his head thoughtfully. “How aboutThey Were Our Heroes in War, and They Are Still Our Heroes?”

I smiled. “I’ll tweak it a bit, but you’re right—they truly are heroes.”

As I walked inside, I couldn’t help but feel a warmth settle in my chest. My dad was finally living the life he deserved. Mom had been gone a long time, and he needed someone who would love him, someone to share his life with.

I was sitting in the living room when he walked back in, looking handsome in a fresh shirt, his hair neatly combed. He fidgeted for a moment before meeting my eyes.

“Are you okay with this?” he asked.

I smiled. “Dad, yes. I’m so happy you found someone.” I tilted my head toward the door. “Make sure you put a bag in your car. If you stay the night, you’ll need your toothbrush and whatever else you might need.”

“You’re right,” he said with a chuckle. “I’ll leave it in the car until it’s time to take it out.” He hesitated. “Thank you, dear.”

I frowned. “Why are you thanking me?”

He exhaled, his expression softening. “I appreciate your understanding. I get lonely sometimes. I know I have you and your sister, but it’s not the same as having someone to share my morning coffee with. Someone to talk to about my kids and grandkids. Someone to discuss the neighbor who killed my rosebush because he gave it too much plant food.”

I laughed. “Dad, I get it. And that’s why I’m so happy for you. You and Helen deserve to have someone special in your lives.”

That night, I worked on my story until one in the morning. I thought about my dad before putting it away and crawling into bed. He had called me at seven, his voice light with excitement as he said he’d see me tomorrow.

I chuckled to myself, shaking my head. He had sounded just like a kid telling a parent they were staying the night at a friend’s house.

And honestly? That made me happier than anything.

25

Gage

We were landingthe plane when I returned to the others. Taking my seat, I glanced at the family. Earlier, when I’d checked on them, Aya had been asleep, exhaustion and nerves evident in the lines on her face. Now, she sat upright, her hands twisting in her lap, anxiety clear in her expression. She was worried about seeing her brothers.

By the time we arrived at the hotel, it was late. The entire top floor had been reserved for us, ensuring privacy and security. The family had ordered dinner and was eating when a knock sounded at the door. I got up to answer it.

Two men stood outside.

“Hello,” I greeted them.

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