Gates of Paradise (Casteel 4)

"Well . . I . . . did what I thought was best for

you, Annie. I'm sorry," he said remorsefully. "Let's put it behind us, Drake, and do what

we've come here to do," I said firmly.

"Yes. Of course." One of the undertakers

signaled him. "I'll talk to you later."

He went back to the hearse. I looked

everywhere for Troy but I didn't see him. Where was

he?

My question was answered after the line of cars

pulled away from the house and wound its way to the

family cemetery. He was already there, saying his

private good-bye. He came directly to our car as soon

as we arrived. His dark, melancholy eyes brightened

when he saw me.

Now that he was dressed in a black suit and tie,

was able to see the resemblances between him and

Tony more clearly. However, where Tony's eyes had

been bright and excited by his confusion and sadness,

Troy's were calm.

"Hello, Annie. Was the trip all right?" "Yes, Troy. Troy, this is Luke."

"Oh yes." They shook hands. I saw from the

way they looked into each other's eyes that they liked

each other instantly, and that warmed my heart. When

opened my door, they both rushed to help me, but

Luke got there first. Troy stepped back and watched

him help me out of the car.

"Just a cane now. That's good," Troy said when

Luke handed it to me. "How much of a difference

tender loving care can make."

Luke, Troy, and I moved to the front of the