Book excerpt: The classic New York Times bestseller. Lee Reston has a fulfilling life imbued with the love of her three wonderful children. Then a shattering event-the loss of her oldest son, Greg-tears her world apart. In her anguish, she turns to police officer Christopher Lallek, Greg's best friend. Their shared mourning develops into friendship, and then something deeper. But life is never simple. The family that was once the core of her existence becomes a mixed blessing, as Lee explores where family ties end-and her needs as a woman begin.