Lory’s smile was more of a cringe. She had always been the youngest on her side … but Uncle Ben’s side had included some younger (and older) clingers-on. Mostly the boys.

“I’m sure he’s missing you,” she said.

She hoped it was true, anyway.

When Mable described him, Lory smiled genuinely this time. What would the world look like if Simon-- if Uncle Ben had learned when to shut his mouth? Be kind? Shut his mouth? Be protective, and shut his mouth? What if Luke had understood those virtues, too?

“You’re quite right, young miss. I think all men could learn from-” those traits “-… your brother’s example.”

She had no idea if this girl was even right about him, but it was a lovely thought. There weren’t enough of those.