But her voice echoed in my mind, reminding me that someone out there might still be waiting. I prepared a simple meal, wrapped it the way she always had, and drove to the laundromat. When I walked inside, I stopped in surprise.
Eli was there—but transformed. He stood in a neat suit, holding a bouquet of white lilies. When he saw me, his eyes filled with tears.
He explained that years earlier my mother had helped connect him with programs that offered training and support. He had rebuilt his life, found stable work, and promised her he would return one day to show he was okay.
We sat together, and Eli shared something I never knew. Years ago, he had once helped me when I was briefly lost at a crowded fair, guiding me safely to a police officer before disappearing into the background.
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