“So am I.”
That became our agreement.
Not to fix each other.
To work on things.
A year after the hearing, I returned to the courthouse.
Not for myself.
The hospital network was launching a legal-medical partnership designed to help older adults and people with chronic illness understand advance directives, supported decision-making, and guardianship alternatives.
Judge Carter had agreed to speak at the opening.
When she saw me, she looked at my wheelchair.
Then at Daniel standing beside me.
“No purple backpack today?”
I smiled.
“Thankfully.”
She shook my hand.
“How are you, Mr. Whitmore?”
A year earlier, I would have answered automatically.
Fine.
Strong.
Improving.
Now I gave her the truth.
“Some days are easier than others.”
She nodded.
“That sounds familiar.”
Across the lobby, Vanessa was speaking with Rachel.
Mark had arrived with several members of the foundation.
Maria stood near the entrance.
And beside her was Sophie.
