Chapter 10

Chapter 10

Years later, I lay on a daybed outside, swaying gently in the breeze. I slept soundly, dreaming of a quiet rainforest. Tall trees blocked the sky, but I wasn’t scared—I loved that world. The smell of flowers, the freshness of grass… I’d lie on the lawn, watching leaves dance in the wind. I’d sit by the pond, watching cats and fish “befriend” each other…

Pushing through small bushes, I saw a field of dandelions. I remembered a promise I’d made to them long ago. Wind, come, I thought. I waited with them, and it was perfect.

Warm sunlight spilled over my face. I danced in the light, becoming the wind’s girl. When I stopped, the wind blew. I tried to memorize the scene, but it blurred…

Then I felt someone cover me with a coat. Gray-haired Owen lay down beside me, murmuring, “Sweetheart, don’t catch a cold.”

Clara Bennett’s Notes

My name is Clara Bennett. Mom named me hoping I’d be happy, hoping all my wishes would come true.

My love is Owen Carter. He cries when I yell at him.

I have a cute son. Well—had. Now he has his own family. His name is Milo Carter.

Son, your mommy’s one true love is your daddy. He was the love of my life, my ultimate dream.