Page 29 of Raven

“No.” He shook his head. “I’m not letting Dana run my life anymore. Everyone thinks I’m still heartbroken because she left me. However, the truth is, I’m fortunate. I wasted two years married to a woman I didn’t love. Sure, I missed her at first—but that faded fast.”

He paused, watching her. “Guess it was a blessing in disguise when she ran off with the neighbor. Is that who she’s with now?” I asked.

“No, the guy with her now is her cousin.”

Oliver nodded and picked up his fork. “This food’s great,” he said, clearly ready to change the subject.

We were laughing at something River had said when a shadow appeared beside our table. I looked up to see Dana.

“Hello, Oliver.” Her voice was quiet. Then she turned to me. “Raven. Found any more long-lost family lately?”

“Yes,” I said. “A sister and a niece. How’ve you been, Dana?” I took in her gaunt frame and sickly complexion. She looked worn out—like life had been draining her.

“Not so good,” she said, then turned back to Oliver. “That’s why I’m here. I need to talk to you.”

“Have a seat. Let’s talk.”

“I’d rather speak in private.”

“You can say whatever you need to in front of Raven,” Oliver said flatly.

She hesitated but finally lowered herself into the chair.

“I have cancer, and my health’s been getting worse by the day,” she said, her voice weak. “I came to Carlsbad because I don’t have much time left. I’m sorry I left you, Oliver. It was the biggest mistake I ever made. But that’s not why I’m here.”

Her eyes filled with tears. “I came to tell you... you have a son. His name is Oliver, but I call him Olly. I’m sorry I kept him from you.”

Oliver blinked. “Wait—what? Are you saying I have a son?”

“Yes. I should’ve told you sooner. But I knew I didn’t have many years left, and I wanted time with him. I was afraid you’d take him away from me. I brought him here. I don’t want him to see me die. He knows all about you. I’ve told him stories, showed him pictures…”

I glanced at Oliver. His expression was unreadable, but I could see the wheels turning. His parents had died a few years ago. His brother, Robby, was gone too. Oliver had already lost so much.

And Dana… she’d always complained about him being sent overseas, as if he had a choice. Watching him now, I could see him shutting down.

“Where is he?” he asked finally.

“At the hotel, with my cousin.”

“We’ll follow you there.”

She tried to stand but trembled, and Oliver moved instinctively, steadying her with gentle hands. No matter how hurt or angry he was, he was still the kindest man I knew.

“My cousin went ahead to get Olly ready,” Dana said. “Can I ride with you?”

“Yeah. You can ride with us,” Oliver said softly. “Dana… I’m sorry you’re going through this.”

We walked to the truck. Oliver lifted Dana into the backseat as if she weighed nothing. She gave me the hotel name, and I knew which one she meant.

“Oliver, I’m so sorry about your parents and Robby,” she said quietly.

“Thank you,” he replied, eyes forward.

When we pulled into the parking lot, I spotted a little boy playing in the pool. Oliver saw him at the same moment.

We both smiled. He looked like a miniature version of Oliver—same jawline, same hair, same spark in his eyes. Then the kid dove into the water like a pro.

“How old is he?” Oliver asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

---