Claire listened.
Then she asked, “Which part do you want them to remember?”
“Our dance in the chair.”
“Then those are the pictures you can share, if you want to share anything.”
Elena sighed.
“I don’t want every movement I make to become an inspirational story.”
“You don’t have to let it.”
“Even June thought standing was the important part.”
Claire was quiet.
Then she said, “That’s worth talking to her about. Not because you owe her a demonstration, but because she’s trying to understand what participation means for her.”
Elena looked toward the wedding photograph on the coffee table.
“Marissa said June’s been having problems at school.”
“Did she tell you what happened?”
“Only a little.”
“Then perhaps start by listening.”
Elena nodded.
After they ended the call, she opened the family chat again.
Most relatives had moved on to discussing honeymoon photographs.
Elena typed a brief message.
*Thank you for celebrating with us. I loved dancing with James in my wheelchair, and that’s the first-dance memory I hope you’ll keep. I’m still using my chair, and I’m happy with the way we celebrated.*
She attached the photograph of herself and James laughing together.
Then she put down the phone.
A few minutes later, Vivian replied.
*That’s a lovely picture, Elena. I’m sorry I shared the other clip without asking.*
Elena smiled.
She sent a small heart.
Then she turned off her phone.
***
June’s mother called the following afternoon.
Marissa sounded tired.
