Then Sam’s voice, clear and firm:
“That’s why we won’t ask her. We’ll build it all up first, so all she has to do is say yes.”
Silence.
Then Leo again:
“David said there’s a position opening up. Remote. Senior level. He said… if she’s still who he remembers… it’s hers.”
The recording ended.
I didn’t realize I was crying until Mark reached for my hand.
I gently pulled away and stood.
“Mom?” Leo called softly.
I couldn’t answer.
I walked out, down the hallway, needing space to breathe.
Eighteen years.
That’s how long it had been since I even considered going back.
And now—they had built a path for me.
I wiped my face, steadied myself, and returned.
