DAHLIA 

The woman who had birthed me but was no mother to me stood before me.

How had she even gotten here? How did she know I’d be here? This was a kids’ boutique, and last time I checked, I was the last child she’d nurtured.

So the only reasonable thought is that she followed or stalked me down here. 

“I just want to talk and get to know my…”

“Do not even dare.” My voice had reduced to a chilling tone. 

“Who’s she, mommy?”

“She’s nobody to us, princess. Now, go finish your shopping.” 

I gestured for the twin girls to come take Haven and Jeff a little farther,...