She glanced between Chelsey and Jacob, her expression a mix of frustration and concern.

Finally, she exhaled a heavy “alas” and sank into a nearby chair, her expression a mix of anger and guilt.

“What did I do to deserve this?" she lamented. “It was bad enough that I ended up with irresponsible men, but why must my daughter endure the same hardships I faced? What am I supposed to do now?"