It was the example he set by helping people.
Adam appeared beside me and gently placed an arm around my shoulders.
“Ready to go, Mom?”
I nodded.
“The kids are waiting,” he said. “Lily’s already practicing Grandpa’s present announcements.”
I laughed.
“She’s getting pretty good at them.”
“Better than me,” Adam admitted.
“Everyone’s better than you, sweetheart.”
He laughed and hugged me.
We walked toward the exit together.
Before leaving, I noticed Walter’s old volunteer apron still hanging on a hook beside the others.
The red fabric was faded, and there was a small stain on the pocket.
His name remained printed across the front.
WALT.
I touched it gently.
Then I followed my son outside.
Our family was waiting in the warm car.
Lily was sitting in the back seat wearing Walter’s oversized Santa hat.
As soon as I opened the door, she announced in her loudest voice:
