Callen wrapped his arms around his brother from behind, just to hold him as Elizabeth and Gene did the same. This all felt right.
“I want to use our canoes and have Wyler build a totem pole for my mom. It should be a big bear. I remember her telling me that I was always protected by my momma bear. She chose her totem animal, and I don’t think she ever realized it.”
Then it should be done.
It would be.
Elizabeth would get Wyler to do one more piece for Ethan. There was no doubt in her mind that he would too.
“I want to fill it with so many books, and backpacks for back to school. I want it to have tutors and a place for arts and crafts. I want every child who crosses the threshold to feel that joy and not the misery.”
Then, they’d make that happen.
Elizabeth shared what she’d planned with Callen, so that Ethan, Chris, and Gene were aware.
“I was just talking about adding something to the reservation with Callen not that long ago,” she admitted.
They focused on her.
“I think there should be some playgrounds and a pool. The kids could play all summer, and when it’s rainy they could go to the library.”
Ethan smiled.
“Kids love a pool.”
Theirs absolutely did.
“We can hire lifeguards,” Callen said. “And tell them the name of the pavilion of fun, Elizabeth,” he urged.
She did.
“The Wyler Blackhawk Swim Complex, or something or other. I want him to see it and hopefully it gives him a reason to keep fighting.”
Ethan smiled.
Despite his past with his father, that made the future better.
“That’s perfect. Thank you.”
Takoda had been standing off to the side, just watching his parents. What he hoped was one day, he was the kind of parent that his children remembered fondly, like they were doing.
It was beautiful, and they gave him a roadmap on how to be a husband too.
“One day, I’ll make sure you each have a piece of this reservation too,” Takoda admitted. “I’ll keep it going, and then so will Oliver.”
That was the most beautiful sentiment.
Ethan opened his arms, and Takoda hugged him. He was a bit bigger than him, so he fit into his body perfectly. His son, all of their sons, were already giving them so much.
“You’re our legacy, Koda,” Ethan admitted. “To see you each grow up, have a life, and start a family is the best tribute for all of us.”
And it was.
Together they stood there, admiring the space. When Chris had given them some time, he knew he needed to talk to his wife.
“I hate to change the subject, but it’s about the case. Can you give me a few?” he asked.
She knew it was likely DNA that the team had.