Epilogue

 

Eighteen months later.

 

It’s one of those perfect Pennsylvania days. Crystal blue sky, temperatures in the mid-seventies, and the smell of lilacs rushes around me in a dance to usher in summer. I’m waiting for Drew and Mark who are inspecting the final tent for the tournament. Already the parking lot is filling with locals who signed up to help support our first event.

I wander into the pro shop where the staff has already hung the sign. I can’t help but stop and admire the banner: First Annual Art Charity Golf Tournament.

Next to a table laden with donated prizes, the grand prize is displayed on a large easel. I run my hand over the oak frame. This painting is still my favorite.

Amanda said she wanted to hang her new family portrait over her fireplace now, anyway. “Besides,” she told me, “it’s time someone else enjoyed one of your creations.”

I hadn’t wanted to take her painting, but she’d insisted. Who can argue with a new mother?

I linger over the work a minute longer and then move to the next table, where I’ve placed some of my latest art.

After our honeymoon, Drew built a studio for me over our garage. If I lean just right, I can see the river.

“Bobbi! The place looks wonderful!” I turn to see my mother, who is leading my father into the clubhouse by the hand. It seems she runs more than their new sporting goods store now. I hide a smile.

Dad doesn’t look too upset though. In fact, ever since Mom left the hospital, he hasn’t stopped smiling.

She pulls me into a hug. “Where’s that son-in-law of mine?” Her necklace and earrings compliment her peach blouse and linen pants.

“He’s finishing with the set-up. Should be here soon. You look great, Mom. Do you sell that shirt in your store?” I finger the dainty collar.

“Not yet, but give her time.” My father steps next to us and chuckles. He told me last week at dinner that buying the store was the best decision he ever made, short of marrying my mother. I swear it’s like the two of them can’t get enough of each other.

He reaches for my hand. The first time he did that at my wedding, I didn’t know what to do. I looked at my mother who was fixing my veil and she nodded, a tiny smile appearing on her lips.

Today I grasp it and hang on a full minute. “You look great, too, Dad. Are you ready to win?”

He shrugs. “Let’s leave that to your brother. I heard he’s been practicing between his Bible classes.”

“Maybe I shouldn’t have given him those lessons all spring.” I watch the double entry doors and see my twin coming toward me.

No one would know that once upon a time he couldn’t walk. He strides toward us, but reaches me first.

“Congratulations on your tournament. By the looks of the parking lot, your favorite art charity is going to be very happy.” His smile reminds me it’s time for something I need to do.

I leave my family standing together while I hurry behind the counter, searching for my purse. When I look up, Drew has already arrived and is making small talk with them.

“For I know the plans…” Again, that still small voice whispers in my heart.

I’m glad I listened.

My hand finally finds the folder and I glance at Drew. He nods and motions for me to come over.

Perhaps I could have found a better moment, but today seems right. I work my way back to the people who mean more to me than golf or art ever could.

Drew pulls me close.

My mother’s eyes widen, waiting for the news I’d hinted at earlier.

I take a deep breath and pass around the ultrasound picture. “The doctor says it’s a boy.”

I smile at Robert. “And a girl.”