I almost changed my mind.
Not because of Adrian.
Because of the boys.
I looked at them in winter coats and navy sweaters.
Eight years old.
Four separate personalities.
Four lives Adrian had never touched.
“Last chance,” I said.
“We can go home.”
Ethan shook his head.
Lucas was already questioning a crew member about instrumentation.
Noah pressed his forehead toward the window.
Miles held my hand.
He whispered:
“What if he doesn’t believe you again?”
I squeezed his fingers.
“He doesn’t get to decide whether you exist.”
That answer seemed enough.
Cedarcrest Estate appeared beneath us near dusk.
Snow covered the open fields.
Tall trees bordered the property.
Lights glowed from the enormous house.
Cars filled the drive.
Guests had already gathered.
When the helicopter descended, people came outside.
At first they were probably curious.
Then I recognized them.
Adrian’s parents.
His younger sister.
Relatives.
And Adrian.
