Mom explained that James had written to Dad after learning about his illness. He wanted to apologize and make peace before it was too late. Dad initially refused to respond, but something changed during his final weeks. He eventually agreed to meet his brother privately. They spent an afternoon together, talking about their childhood, their parents, and the years they had wasted being angry. Mom had kept the photograph because it was taken shortly after that meeting. It showed the two brothers standing together, looking remarkably alike despite the decades that had passed.

Brian picked up the letter and continued reading. Dad had written that he regretted allowing pride to separate him from his only sibling. He explained that he had wanted to introduce James to us but couldn’t find the courage. He feared we would judge him for hiding such an important part of our family history. Then came the sentence that made Mom begin crying. “If my brother ever finds the courage to come home, please give him a seat at our Sunday table.” I looked toward the empty chair beside Mom. Suddenly, I understood why she had canceled dinner that morning.