He's a mountain of a man. Arms like tree trunks, a thick beard dusted with gray, and eyes that don't miss a thing. He wipes his forehead with the back of a calloused hand.

Sean stands a little in front of Daniel, one hand resting on his little brother's shoulder. A gesture that says stay behind me.

His gaze sweeps over them. Sean's bruised knuckles. Daniel's too-big hoodie. The duffel bag slung over Sean's shoulder.

A long pause. A bird calls somewhere in the distance.