114 Jay’s Extended Family

As the elderly man's voice cut through the tension, addressing Maria by name, Jackson's mind buzzed with confusion. How did this stranger know his grandmother? The sudden familiarity caught him off guard, leaving him momentarily speechless. Before he could process this revelation, Maria's eyes widened in surprise, mirroring the bewilderment reflected in the faces of Jackson, Celia, Evelyn, and the man standing beside the elderly man. None of them had anticipated any connection among the strangers involved in the accident. Evelyn broke the stunned silence. "Care to explain?" she demanded. Her question prompted everyone to exchange perplexed glances, their minds racing with questions. Visibly taken aback but composed, Maria turned to face the elderly man, her expression carried surprise and recognition. "Carl, is that really you?" she questioned, her voice trembling slightly with emotion. Carl nodded, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "Yes, Maria, it's m