Having spent the whole day with Frank's family, Ray didn't go to Tyler or Mikie — he headed to Hina's grave.
He now understood that her crush could have been something fleeting. But even if she had never said it directly, you could read everything in her eyes. Not to mention the letter she had left behind. Ray still kept it.
If before Lily he didn't want to show his weakness, with Hina they had always been completely open. The illness had limited the girl, but in some way, it had forced her to grow up quickly.
And now, having come to her grave with a plush toy in his hands, Ray intended to talk to the little one just as openly. Sitting down opposite the headstone, he smirked and said:
"I know you might be unhappy with my gift. So many years have passed, and all I ever bring you are plush toys. But I want you to remain, for me, forever that innocent girl I remember you as. These toys, in my opinion, perfectly complement your image."
Having begun to share his plans, Ray completely lost track of time. Though no one answered him, it seemed to him that they were once again having their heated arguments — where this little one tried to convince him he would be a good father. The thought that they would never find out what kind of father he could have been brought a sad smile to Ray's face.
Their peculiar conversation was interrupted by a vaguely familiar voice:
"Mr. Ray Evans?"
Someone addressed him, and the tone clearly carried questioning notes.
Turning around, Ray saw Bart — Casey's father. The man wasn't alone. Beside him stood Lisa's mother — Kate. From the atmosphere between them, it was clear they were now a couple. Ray was sincerely glad to see that they had helped each other survive the loss.
"Glad to see you both. So Casey's bet paid off — you really do look great together."
At Ray's words, the woman lowered her eyes in embarrassment, while Bart merely smiled:
"Honestly, I never thought I'd marry again."
"How are you doing?"
"As you probably know, my son wanted to be a policeman. So I left my job as an accountant and transferred to the economic crimes investigation department."
"I think Casey would be proud of you," Ray said sincerely.
"Maybe you're right. But I think he would have preferred me to work in the field."
"Darling, everyone has their own talents. Your knowledge will bring far more benefit to society," Kate gently objected.
"I think your wife is right."
"I know. Besides, let's be honest: I'm too old for field work, and I understand it's not for me. Also, our children need me."
"I'm very happy for you," Ray repeated. "They're still too young to bring them here, but one day we'll definitely introduce them."
Though their meeting was unexpected, Ray was deeply glad to run into old acquaintances and learn that, despite all the trials, they had found their happiness.