I looked toward the departing Grace and felt a sense of oppression. We were once a close-knit family who shared everything, but it had come to this. I realized how unpredictable life could be.

I recalled Grace angrily defending Melanie at the baby’s full moon party. Looking at Grace now, I understood her life must be far from ideal, given how worn and aged she looked. After getting in the car, I drove to the office feeling gloomy.

I dealt with some urgent matters and told Ryan I needed to go t