As safeguards go away, anger arises. Bitterness grows. Distance widens. And lifetimes pass, forgotten. The drought settles.
The old man was granted five minutes, simply to drop off presents for the grandchildren. Not much, but a first. As he mounted the porch steps, she came from the door. They met at the top steps. A snowflake danced to their noses.
Hearts heal. Futures blossom. .