A cool breeze was blowing as waves rolled onto the beach, backward and forwards. The ebb and flow of seawater, sunrise, and sunset reminded Sarah of a simpler, more ordinary life. However, there was nothing ordinary about this moment.

Charles kept silent with one hand in his pocket and another putting a cigarette in his mouth. They walked slowly along the beach.

After a long time, Sarah spoke first, "Why is it so hard for you to talk about your family?"

Charles didn't ...