didn't even know I was carrying lifted from my shoulders. The closing date the realtor

lt f

nd bought a first edition of "To Kill a Mockingbird," my aunt's favorite. Then, I we

into a fierce hug. "Oh, Angelina

, Aunt Carol," I s

es searching my face. "Are you sure abou

id, handing her

place to heal before the next chapter of my life began. We spent the time cooking,

g ready to leave, she pressed a

said, her eyes misty. "She wanted y

a simple, elegant sapphi

nt Carol said, hugging me one last time. "

car pulled up. Danial and Ismael got out, with Judi tra

d smile on his face. "We were

ic in her eyes as she remembered her promise to keep

y voice calm. I looked from their face

casual. "Where are you going? We'

aled that this wasn't just a trip, b

the girl hovering behind them. "Judi,

king such good care of me. They insisted I move into the guest

ittle twist of the knife. She was offici

al, possessive gesture. It was a clear statement.

best," Danial said, his eye

a quiet confirmation

aid, my tone perfectly even. "Well,

ward. "Let us drive you to the ai