My son said dinner was canceled, but when I got to the restaurant…

But it’s never too late to remember. It’s never too late to change your life. With those words, I turned to Miss Prentiss, letting her know I was done.

The hall exploded with applause, and I, feeling slightly dizzy, walked down from the stage, where Reed was waiting for me. The next item on the program was the unveiling of George’s nameplate. I was handed large ceremonial scissors to cut the ribbon.

I did so to camera flashes and renewed applause. After the formal part, a small informal part began, with champagne, light hors d’oeuvres, and a tour of the new wing. Many people came up to me to congratulate and thank me.

Wesley and Cora were among them. Mom, that was impressive, Wesley said, shuffling awkwardly from foot to foot. Dad would be proud.

Yes, he would have been proud, I agreed, especially if he saw his grandson Reed helping to organize this event, the way he takes care of his grandmother. George always appreciated family loyalty, Wesley flinched, catching the hint. Mom, I know that we, that what I did was wrong, but we can fix it, start over.

Maybe, I nodded, but it takes time and trust, and trust, Wesley, is something you have to earn. I saw Louis Quinlan coming toward us and I felt strangely relieved. I apologize for interrupting, he said, coming up.

Edith, Miss Prentiss would like you to say a few words to the children who are already learning the new section. Of course, I turned to my son. Excuse me, Wesley, duty calls.

Louis offered me his hand and I gratefully accepted it. We stepped back, but instead of leading me to Miss Prentiss, he headed toward a quiet corner of the garden near the library. Miss Prentiss wasn’t looking for me, was she? I asked with a slight smile.

Guilty, he admitted. Just thought you might need an escape from a tense conversation. Thank you, I thanked him sincerely.

It’s, it’s not easy, they’re my kids, no matter what. I understand, Louis nodded. Family relationships are always complicated, but you’re right that trust has to be earned.

We sat on a bench in the shade of an old oak tree. We had a view of the new wing of the library, the gold plaque with George’s name on it glistening in the sunlight. It’s beautiful, Louis said.

The architect did a good job of harmonizing the new wing with the old building. Yes, it’s very nice, I agreed. George would be pleased.

We were silent for a while, enjoying the peace and quiet of the little garden, despite the noise of the celebrations nearby. I’ve been thinking, Louis said suddenly. Next weekend they’re doing King Lear at the town theater.

I’ve bought two tickets, but my sister with whom I was going to go has to leave unexpectedly to visit her daughter. Would you like to keep me company? I looked at him, surprised by the invitation. There was something in his eyes, warmth, hope, maybe even a hint of uncertainty that made my heartbeat a little faster.

I’d love to, I replied, surprised at my own resolve. Louis brightened. Great, I’ll pick you up at six.

The play starts at seven, but I thought we could have dinner before then. That sounds wonderful, I smiled, feeling a slight excitement I hadn’t felt in years. We headed back to the celebration where Reed was already looking for us.

Grandma, there you are, he exclaimed. Miss Prentice wants you to meet the kids from the summer reading club. Coming, honey, I turned to Louis.

Duty calls for real this time. Of course, he bowed slightly. I’ll see you this weekend…