This time, he didn’t hint.
He simply asked.
And because we could finally talk openly, we worked out something that suited everyone.
Renee and I now have lunch together once a month.
She tells me about growing up with very little money and how embarrassed she’d always felt when her family struggled.
I tell her about the years Walter and I spent stretching every paycheck, raising Adam, and trying to make a modest house feel like a wonderful home.
We’ve discovered that we understand each other far better than either of us expected.
Adam also began volunteering at Westdale.
Once a month, he helps repair shelves, doors, and furniture.
He’s not particularly handy.
Walter would have found that hilarious.
But Gus, one of the older volunteers, patiently teaches him.
A few weeks ago, Adam called me after work.
“Mom, guess what?”
“What?”
“I fixed Dad’s cabinet.”
