Chapter 43

It was as though she was a different person, and Henry peered closely at her just to make sure, even though there was no doubt. After all, who doesn’t recognize one’s own mother?

The apartment building had a little awning over the front door, and just behind her was a tall man who, for just a second, Henry thought was Vito. But this time, when he looked closer, he was certain it wasn’t. The man had the same tall frame, broad shoulders, and mass of dark curls that Vito had. But this guy seemed several years older than Vito and had a full, heavy beard. He was dressed in a sport coat, white shirt, and jeans. He was laughing too. The baritone chuckles floated over to Henry on the breeze.

There were some bushes in front of the building Henry was nearest, and he moved behind them to shield himself more securely from view. He didn’t know if such a maneuver was necessary, since his mother and this man seemed to have eyes only for each other.