When the call ended, we remained silent for several moments.
Then George smiled for the first time in weeks.
“Maybe he’s finally ready.”
“For what?”
“To pay us back.”
For the first time in years, we genuinely believed our money might be returned.
The following evening, we drove to their home carrying a bottle of wine.
Nancy welcomed us with her usual warmth.
“I’m so glad you came.”
Her embrace lasted slightly longer than normal.
“You look tired,” I whispered.
“I haven’t been sleeping very well,” she admitted before forcing another smile.
Dinner felt strangely ordinary.
Roast chicken.
Mashed potatoes.
Fresh green beans.
Nancy had prepared everything herself.
Anyone watching would have assumed we were simply four relatives enjoying a pleasant meal.
But small details kept catching my attention.
Nancy seemed distracted.
Several times, I saw her studying Pete with an expression I could not identify.
Concern.
Sadness.
Perhaps guilt.
“I’ll make coffee,” she said softly before disappearing into the kitchen.
She returned and placed cups before us without saying much.
Dessert plates still remained on the table when George finally leaned forward.
“So…”
Pete looked up.
Pete slowly nodded. “There is.”
He folded his napkin carefully.
Then he met George’s eyes.
“George… I’ve paid my debt.”
George blinked.
Then he laughed.
“I said I’ve finally paid my debt.”
Pete inhaled slowly.
“Paid in full.”
Silence filled the dining room.
Eventually, George shook his head.
