“When I watched your family, I saw how present they were. Listening. Responding. Making jokes. But now that I look back on when my parents were alive, I can see it was different at our house. There was a reserved tone. Likely due to Lisa. She’d been missing for years, and yet, she was there. Always there. Always in my parents’ hearts and minds. And always making them hold back. They loved me. I know that. But at a distance, if that makes any sense.”
He nodded. “Maybe they were too afraid to love deeply and get hurt again.”
“I think you’re right. I read in my dad’s journal that I was a surprise and that the idea of having a second child had to grow on them. Dad struggled between raising me and finding Lisa. He said he knew I was safe and Lisa needed him more. She needed him to find her.”
“Had to hurt to read that.”
“It did, but he was right. She did need him more. And now I understand their struggles, and I can understand my upbringing. It makes me appreciate your family more. They’re so open and caring. I like that. And I like you. I love you.”
A wide smile slid across his face, and he took her hands. “You mean it?”
“I do. With all my heart.” She smiled at him but suddenly felt shy.
“I’ve learned something the past few days with you,” he said. “Something I never realized.”
“What’s that?” She inched closer to him.
“I might be a Byrd, but until I met you, I’ve been grounded. Now I want to soar with you.” He held up a hand. “And before you say anything about my corny Byrd comment, you should know there will be a lifetime of them.”
“I didn’t think it was corny. It was sweet and true. I feel the same way, though I have to say I’ve never thought about a relationship in terms of a bird.” She circled her arms around his neck. “But you are a special Byrd, and I would love to make a nest with you.”
He tossed his head back and whooped.
“I’ve never heard a bird call quite like that.” She laughed.
“That’s because I’m a Byrd of a different feather.” He grinned. “And I hope you’ll take me under your wing for the rest of our lives.”
