"Don't look at your phone for a few days, Avery." Tammy could not help but remind her. "Elliot bought over the news in Bridgedale. It's disgusting."

Avery did not respond.

Her fever had subsided, but she was starving after not eating all day. Besides, her throat was dry and she could barely make a sound.

"Have something to eat first, Avery. I'm going to the airport to pick up Mike. He's about to arrive soon, so I'll head there now," Tammy said, then left the house.

Mrs. Cooper brought out a bowl of soup and placed it on the table in front of Avery.

After finishing the soup, Avery recovered some of her energy.

"Layla, Hayden… Why are you staring at me like that?" Avery forced a smile. "I just caught a cold. I'll be fine soon."

"Were you crying in secret, Mommy?" Layla pouted when she saw her mother's reddened eyes. "Don't be sad. You still have me, Hayden, and Robert. We would never leave you."

"I know that. Which is why my mood is better now that I've recovered." Avery reached