ANNA'S POV

"Hi Mrs Cole, I’m so sorry about Uncle Larry, my deepest condolences,” Isabel said, her voice soft as she leaned in ever so slightly. And just like that, it almost seemed like she was trying to shift the attention entirely back to herself. The way her shoulders squared, the well-rehearsed sad tilt of her head, it was so typical of her.

“Thank you very much, Isabel, it’s good to see you again,” Mrs. Cole replied, placing a hand over her heart. Her eyes were red and tired, but her voice still carried warmth, even under grief.

I knew Mrs. Cole wanted to know me better, ever since she...