Chapter 11: The Harbor in Newport
In May, to escape the media storm of the trial and celebrate the arrival of spring, Margaret took Ellie to their private coastal estate in Newport, Rhode Island.
*The Breakers Rest* sat on a dramatic granite cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean—twelve acres of wild hydrangeas, manicured lawns, and a weathered granite manor with wide terraces facing the rolling blue waves.
The ocean breeze was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of salt spray and blooming sea roses.
Ellie and Margaret walked along the stone seawall, their coats wrapped tightly against the morning wind.
""I used to sit on this terrace every summer, Ellie,"" Margaret said, looking out over the vast, sparkling water. ""I would watch the sailing boats and wonder where you were. I wondered if you were warm, if you had enough to eat, if anyone was holding your hand.""
Ellie reached out, taking Margaret’s hand in her own strong, warm palm.
""I was waiting for you, Mother,"" Ellie smiled softly. ""Even when I didn't know your name, my heart knew you were looking for me.""
A pod of dolphins breached the surface fifty yards from the cliffs, their sleek bodies glinting in the morning sun.
May you like
For the first time in twenty years, Margaret let out a long, unburdened breath, feeling the last cold shadows of ancient grief wash away into the endless Atlantic tide.
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