“She died fourteen months ago.”
I had met Megan's parents dozens of times.
I knew she had a younger sister.
But Lena had lived across the country for most of our friendship.
We had met only twice.
Quiet.
Artistic.
Always carrying a camera.
I remembered sending flowers when Megan told me Lena died after a sudden brain aneurysm.
Ryan had signed the card too.
Thinking of your family. — Claire & Ryan
My mouth went dry.
“Did Lena have a son?”
Dawson's face changed.
“Yes.”
I stopped breathing.
“His name is Oliver.”
The hospital floor seemed to move beneath my feet.
“You know him?”
“I've met him.”
“When?”
“Twice.”
Dawson rubbed his forehead.
“Lena brought him to Christmas when he was a baby.”
“Then once the next summer.”
“What did Megan tell you about his father?”
“That he wasn't involved.”
I handed him my phone.
Dawson stared at the picture.
Then whispered:
