“Are you sure?” Deanna asked as they left the Haas estate. Headlights pulsed across her face.

“This was her way of apologizing,” James said.

“It felt surreal. Like we never really met this woman until tonight.”

“We hadn’t—until tonight.” Would it last? Had Morelli leaned on her? Or had something inside her thawed?

“We’ll see,” Deanna said, squeezing his hand. “For now, let’s just enjoy what we got.”

“Agreed. Tom’s talented—good voice too. Kind of between tenor and baritone. Almost Sinatra.”

“Wow, James—not only do Filipinos love to sing, you know your singers.” She grinned.

James pointed, crooning, “…and the way you look…tonight.”

“Funny. Nice pipes, Dr. Deetan.”

“Right inspiration.” She winked. “Tom was flirting with Irene the whole night,” she added, humming “Quiet Nights.” “I liked it.”

“It reminded me of home,” James said. “My dad used to serenade my mom with Jobim on guitar.”

“I miss Brazil,” Deanna said softly.

“When were you last home?”

“Almost two years. My parents visited last summer, but I still miss the sounds and smells.”

“Any brothers or sisters?”

“No.” She lowered her voice. “Complicated delivery. They had to do a hysterectomy after I was born. They wanted another child.”

“I’m sorry.” He nodded. “I’m an only child too.”

“Aren’t all doctors overachieving firstborns or only children?” She pinched his arm.

“Only the ones who go into pathology,” he said, brushing her cheek.

“Don’t be so hard on yourself.” She jabbed his ribs and laughter chased the car to her curb. It was close to 11 when he walked her to the door.

Sunday morning, sunlight sifted through bare branches dusted with fresh snow. He hadn’t written home in weeks; letters were easier than phone calls—less chance of colliding with his father. He set pen to paper, mind drifting back to the dinner. He wanted to mention Deanna but knew better. Plenty of time for women after you finish training, he could hear. He pressed the nib, then decided.

Dear Dad and Mom:

Winter has arrived. Nothing like this in Manila—probably a blessing. Residency is going well, and I’m continuing research with Dr. Carter. He always talks about the good old days with you, Dad.

Last night I was invited to dinner at one of my professors’ home. I even sang while her husband played piano. Things are much better than when I first arrived—more friends, fewer stumbles.

He hesitated.

I’ve also been eating well. A fellow resident from Brazil cooked for me recently—cheese bread and a pork-and-bean stew, two national dishes. The pork rivaled the lechon we had when I graduated. Her best friend in Brazil was Chinese, so she learned some Mandarin and Hokkien. She’s a very special friend.

Thank you for the sacrifices that brought me here. Any success I have is because of your love and support.

All my love,
 James

Tires ground over salted slush in the lot below. White, soft, clean. A new season was beginning—Haas, Deanna. A better season.

Next Chapter: Chapter 26-Change of Season Part 3