For 20 years, my mom prepared meals for a homeless man who lived behind our house – the day after she passed away, he held my hands and said something that completely changed my life.

Victor didn’t exist.”

Victor’s voice shook, but he stood tall. “I chose Stephanie when you chose appearances.”

Mark grabbed his coat. “You’ll regret this, Fiona. He’ll suck the life out of you. He did that to Stephanie.”

“I already regret too much,” I said. “But not this.”

Aunt Linda stepped between him and the hallway table, where Mom’s papers were stacked.continue reading …