Sylvie smiled, completely at peace.
"Reverence.
"Reverence for every brick and stone that carries the memory of humankind.
"A collapsed building may be recreated with new materials, but once the structure within a human heart collapses, it can never be rebuilt.
"Once you understand that, you can begin a truly new life."
Thunderous applause filled the hall.
After the ceremony, Sylvie declined every invitation and walked alone toward the parking garage.
Then she stopped.
Two people stood at the far end of the quiet, empty passage.
Alexander was gaunt. Gray streaked his hair, and hardship had weathered his face.
Beside him, Lucas held a bouquet of white roses flown in from Boston and watched her timidly.
"Sylvie..."
When Alexander spoke her name for the first time in 6 years, h
