She held my hand so tightly that I could feel each finger separately.

I wanted to explain everything immediately.

I wanted her to understand that she had not almost abandoned me by believing someone who carried a note.

The staff member helping us reminded me to keep the first conversation simple.

There would be support for the rest.

We did not need to question Lily in the doorway while she watched us struggle to remain calm.

That evening, we went to Mom’s house.