Chapter 10: Facing the Old Road
On Saturday morning, Jax strapped a small bouquet of fresh yellow roses—Sarah’s favorite—to the back of his motorcycle. It was time to take Leo to the cemetery on the edge of town where Sarah was laid to rest.
The cemetery was quiet, shaded by ancient oak trees. The grass was wet with morning dew as Jax and Leo walked hand-in-hand toward a simple stone marker near the far fence.
Leo knelt down in the soft grass, setting the yellow roses gently against the headstone. He traced the engraved letters of his mother’s name with his index finger.
""Hi Mom,"" Leo spoke softly to the quiet air. ""I found him. He rides a big motorcycle just like you said. And he takes care of me.""
Jax stood behind the boy, feeling a wave of grief wash over him, followed by a profound sense of peace. He knelt down beside Leo, placing his hand over the boy’s hand on the cool stone.
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""I'm sorry I missed so many years, Sarah,"" Jax whispered, his voice trembling with emotion. ""I didn't get to protect you, but I promise you on my life, I will protect our boy. He will never go a day without knowing how much he is loved.""
A gentle mountain breeze rustled through the oak trees above them, blowing soft pine needles across the grass. Leo looked up at Jax and smiled, wrapping his small arms around Jax’s neck. Jax pulled his son tight against his chest, shedding the last remnants of his old, bitter life.
