“It’s beautiful, but I only got here yesterday night. I haven’t done much except for jogging this morning.”

“Were there a lot of people on the beach?”

“No, but I saw a few people heading out as I finished. Hey, when do you take off with your dad?”

“In a couple days. His vacation doesn’t start until Monday, so that’s when we leave. Right now he’s getting ready to go into the office to do some work so that he’ll be free and clear by the time we go. Do you want to talk to him?”

“No, I don’t have to. I was just calling to tell you that I hope you’ll have a good time.”

“It’s going to be a blast. I saw a brochure on the river trip. Some of the rapids look pretty cool.”

“Well, you be careful.”

“Mom, I’m not a kid anymore.”

“I know. Just reassure your old-fashioned mother.”

“Okay, I promise. I’ll wear my life jacket the whole time.” He paused for a moment. “You know, we’re not going to have a phone, though, so we won’t be able to talk until I get back.”

“I figured as much. It should be a lot of fun, though.”

“It’ll be awesome. I wish that you could come with us. We’d have a great time.”

She closed her eyes for a moment before responding, a trick her therapist had taught her. Whenever Kevin said something about the three of them being together again, she always tried to make sure she said nothing that she’d later regret. her voice sounded as optimistic as she could make it.

“You and your dad need some time alone. I know he’s missed you a lot. You’ve got some catching up to do, and he’s been looking forward to this trip as long as you have.” There, that wasn’t so hard .

“Did he tell you that?”

“Yes. A few times.”

Kevin was quiet.

“I’ll miss you, Mom. Can I call you as soon as I get back to tell you about the trip?”