"Three days until I head back to Flowerland," I thought as I approached my grandparents' grave with a bouquet.

Just as I reached the entrance, I spotted them—Ella, Mathew, and Alpha Mike. Ella held a bouquet of her own.

I wanted to slip away unnoticed. It seemed they’d reviewed the security footage since Alpha Mike didn’t look ready to confront me.

I nodded at them and turned to leave.

“Alice!” Mathew called out.

“What?” I replied, turning back.

“Day after tomorrow is my mom's birthday. I’ll pick you up at seven.”

I blinked, suddenly recalling that I’d forgotten about it. “I can’t, Mathew. I have other plans.”

His eyes narrowed....