His eyes filled with tears.
I continued.
“Thomas left me a fortune.”
A few people smiled.
“But money can't replace a person.”
I paused.
“It can't undo regret.”
Another breath.
“And it can't give back years we've lost.”
I looked toward the building.
“But it can help us do something good with the years we still have.”
Applause rose.
I smiled.
“This center will provide education, job training, family support, and a welcoming place for people who need one.”
I glanced at Lucy.
“And our very first rule is simple.”
I pointed toward the wooden sign above the door.
“If there's room at the table, there's room for one more.”
The crowd stood.
People applauded.
Julian wiped his eyes.
And Lucy, who had been trying very hard to behave, suddenly threw her arms around me.
“Grandma!”
I laughed.
She hugged me tightly.
Then whispered:
“I love you.”
My heart nearly burst.
