Chapter 14

• MALIA’S POV
• Sunlight streamed into the room and into my eyes as I rolled over in bed. I groaned softly as I stretched, feeling my muscles ache with sore tiredness, the likes of which I haven't felt in a long time. I knew it probably had to do with how frantic and exhausting the previous day had been; the frantic packing of my luggage, the race across the airport, and the will-reading. I laid still and silent in bed as I allowed my mind to wander and go over the events of the previous day. My eyes welled with tears as I remembered my loss, as I remembered that my father was dead.
• I'm so so sorry, Dad. I wish I had found the courage to reach out to you, especially after Ella was born. But I had been too upset and scared to, scared that you would reject us, reject her once again. I should have put aside my fear and pride and just reached out to you. Now you're gone and Ella will never know her grandfather. But I promise you, Dad, that I will never let your memory die. It will live on in me, in your granddaughter, and in the lives of the people you have touched with your kindness and goodwill.