WRITER'S POV

Monica stepped out of her car and stood still for a moment, staring at the front door of the house. She knew what everyone inside thought of her. It wasn’t going to be easy walking in there.

Inside, Tim had already left Vera's side and ran straight into his father’s arms. Jack scooped him up effortlessly and held him close. But his eyes didn’t leave the doorway as Monica finally walked in.

She moved into the sitting room slowly and sat down on the far side, keeping some distance between herself and the others. Her gaze was steady, but the heaviness in her expression made the room go...