The spring rain had just ended, leaving behind a backyard that looked less like a lawn and more like a squishy, shimmering marshland. Raindrops clung to every blade of grass, glittering like diamonds in the early sun. Birds chirped, the air smelled like fresh earth, and puddles the size of small lakes had appeared like magic.

The dog heard him coming before I did. She woke out of a deep sleep on the rug and was completely alert and whining at the door. I knew this day was coming, but I hoped...