Since her discharge from the hospital, Susanna had been living with Sean. This arrangement allowed her closeness to Phillip while Sean's frequent absences gave her a sense of freedom.

She dreaded the idea of returning home. Being around her parents and Nancy felt unsettling. A fissure had formed in her heart, one that was irreparable.

“Phillip, could you accompany me to visit my Grandpa later?" Susanna whispered into Phillip's ear, her breath warm, causing his ear to flush.