239 Judy’s Gesture

(Winona)

The night has been a success by all accounts. The Brennan Wing has a record-breaking amount of donations.

“I just want to say goodnight to Henry,” he says. “This gala has been great… I’ve done what I came to do.”

“I’m very proud of you. Let’s go. You’ve done more than enough tonight.”

We continue toward the exit, weaving through the last few clusters of people lingering by the door. Just as we’re almost at the staircase, I catch sight of Judy, sitting at her table with Gabriel and Cass.

I see her lean over, whisper something to Gabriel, and then, with a smile that feels sharp enough to cut, she does it.

She touches Gabriel on the back of the head and rubs. As she does she glances over at Jayden.

That damn gesture.

It’s a small thing, but I see it instantly, the same subtle motion she used to make with Jayden, a quiet symbol of love she had for him. It was always her thing.

A secret, silent way to say, “I’m here for you. I love you.” Only now, she’s doing it with Gabriel, an