Chapter 10 - THE EMPTY CHAIR AGAIN
Spring arrived slowly.
The snow melted.
The rivers rose.
And Pittsburgh began to breathe again.
Rosie continued working at the bookstore.
She saved money.
Applied for a permanent position.
And began taking online courses in library science.
The investigation into her father's death continued.
Conrad Hale was arrested.
Martin Voss agreed to cooperate with prosecutors.
Rosie finally had answers.
Not all of them.
But enough to begin grieving honestly.
One afternoon, she returned to the restaurant where she'd met Dante.
Nora was behind the counter.
She recognized Rosie immediately.
"Oh, honey."
Rosie smiled.
"Hello."
Nora looked embarrassed.
"I've thought about that night."
Rosie tilted her head.
"The storm?"
Nora nodded.
"I should have found you a seat."
Rosie studied her.
Then smiled gently.
"Yes. You should have."
Nora swallowed.
"I'm sorry."
Rosie nodded.
"Thank you."
She ordered coffee.
Then looked toward the corner table.
It was empty.
She approached.
Sat down.
And watched the river.
A few minutes later, the bell above the door rang.
Dante entered.
He stopped when he saw her.
Rosie's heart gave an unexpected jolt.
He approached slowly.
"Rosie."
She looked up.
"Dante."
He glanced at the empty chair.
"Is anyone sitting here?"
Rosie stared.
Then laughed softly.
"No."
He smiled.
"May I?"
May you like
She nodded.
"Please."
