Grant had once been a detective in Chicago. He discovered corruption involving his partner, but the evidence was turned against him. His career and reputation were destroyed, and the attack that brought him into the diner had been intended to keep him silent.
“I lost everything,” he told me one evening. “I thought running was my only option.”
“Perhaps we’re both running.”
Grant studied me.
“I’m finished running. Are you?”
For the first time, I realized I was not hiding from Kyle anymore. I was building a life that had nothing to do with him.
“No,” I answered. “I’m starting over.”
Our friendship slowly deepened. Grant repaired Aunt May’s porch rail, replaced broken locks, and installed motion lights without making me feel helpless. He never tried to control my decisions. He simply remained beside me while I made them.
Aunt May approved.
“He doesn’t stand in front of you,” she said. “He stands beside you.”
