Catherine placed a hand on Lance’s shoulder and squeezed gently. “Lance, we’ve been friends for years. I hate seeing you torn up over these things. I’m happy to stay and help you carry the burden.”
Lance patted her hand. “I know.”
A small smile played on her lips. “As long as you and Amy are happy, everything I do is worthwhile. We’re confidantes, Lance. If you’re ever feeling down, you can always talk to me. Anytime, anywhere. I’ll be there for you.”
Lance gave a bitter smile. “If only Jessica were as understanding as you.”
Catherine gave his shoulder another comforting squeeze. “I’ll go check if Amy has had her breakfast. After eating all that junk food out, she’s been turning her nose up at the food here.”
With that, she turned and left the room.
…
Jessica sat in a rocking chair on the balcony, her gaze fixed on the flowering crabapple tree outside. The blossoms were in full bloom, a fiery, vibrant red.
Her phone vibrated. It was a message from George—just a single period.
After some thought, she replied, telling him that she had temporarily returned to the Smith family.
A long time passed with no response. She sent another message, a question mark this time. An instant later, a red exclamation point appeared next to it. He had blocked her.
An hour later, Helen came in. “Mrs. Smith, I think this is your suitcase. A local courier just dropped it off. You should check to make sure nothing is missing.”


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