Renee walked to my side and sat down, observing the way I had been standing. “Isabella called,” she said to me, but I ignored her words, focusing instead on my own thoughts. “What exactly is the problem with you, Renee? Don’t you see what I’ve been going through?” I asked, feeling a surge of anger. Renee seemed taken aback but drew closer, tapping me on the shoulder. “What exactly is the problem?” she asked again.

“I don’t have a problem, my love. I’m fine,” I answered, trying to pretend. She looked into my eyes and asked again, “You still haven’t told me what the problem is. I can see the...