Mike was moved by her words. "I get it. As long as you are truly happy, I can learn to be less petty."

"I am happy. Elliot has been great with me and the kids." Avery's lips curled into a smile as she recalled all the things that had happened between her and Elliot. "But I am keeping my visit to Susan a secret for now. I don't want to upset him."

"Yeah. It isn't that big a deal."

After lunch, Avery drove to the prison, and Susan was slightly surprised to see her.

"Did Elliot send you?" With cuffs on her wrist, Susan's eyes glittered with hope.

Avery shook her head. "He's a bit busy lately, Auntie. Once he's free, I'll take him here to see you."

"I know that he's busy. He doesn't have to come see me. I know that he doesn't want to. Even my own child considers me a humiliation and is reluctant to pay me a visit," Susan muttered bitterly. "It's my own fault. I deserve it."

Avery was not sure what to say. "Auntie, there's still a chance for you to be commuted. If you manage to short