Long Drive Out
Greg arrived soon after, and we loaded into the car as he set the GPS and pulled onto the highway. Donnie kept the letters neatly tucked into a folder on his lap, treating them like evidence. Greg asked what I planned to say first, and I answered honestly that I’d start with my name and ask why Roger had written to me. Donnie suggested keeping it simple and letting him talk. As fields and quiet towns blurred past the windows, the reality of where we were headed settled in. With thirty minutes left, I practiced the words aloud until they felt real.
Long Drive Out
Hesitation At The Door
We parked along a narrow sidewalk in front of the address from the listing, and everything matched exactly. A small bell hung above the door, unmoving. I stepped forward and raised my hand, only to freeze inches away from knocking. Greg moved closer and gently told me to go at my own pace, while Donnie stood back, making it clear I was in control. I checked the painted number against the printout one last time, confirming it was the right place. Taking a steady breath, I lowered my hand, then lifted it again, ready to change everything.
Hesitation At The Door
