Chapter Twenty-Four
Three days later, Teddy strolled among the gardens in Central Park, her hand nestled in the crook of Ric’s arm, warm under her fingers. They walked without talking, allowing the sounds of nature to fill the void.
Somewhere overhead, a blue jay called to his mate. A flock of robins conversed while they hopped among the foliage. A squirrel with bulging cheeks balanced an acorn under each arm as he ran the length of the tree branch. She smiled at his antics.
Ric drew Teddy close and pointed across the grassy expanse toward the pond. Two swans glided across the mirrorlike surface, their graceful necks curved into a heart.
Teddy giggled then rolled her eyes. Since when did she giggle?
“They're here just for us.” Ric’s breath warm on her cheek.
She shivered and looked a
