After a devastating earthquake, a woman is saved by her ex and her brother — a rescue that changes the balance of power between them forever. Years later, she returns transformed into a force to be reckoned with, and old loyalties and betrayals are put to the test.
I'm not mad. That's good to hear. We'll pick you up when you're discharged. We've just been busy and haven't had a chance to visit.
Take care of yourself. Before she finishes, Liam's loud voice comes through the phone. Mom, who are you talking to? Hurry up. Let's take a family photo before she gets back.
The phone goes dead quiet. I know, Mom. I'll take care of myself. She clearly sighs in relief. Okay, I have to go to a meeting. Bye.
She hangs up fast. I stare at my dark screen for a long time. I'm not sad or angry. I just realize there is nothing left for me here. Late at night, the ward is silent except for the ticking clock on the wall.
I lean on the rail and drag my bad leg into the hallway. Only my footsteps echo through the empty hallway. I lean against the wall, taking tiny steps. Half an hour later, I'm sweating and panting, but I smile.
I walked six more feet today. I'm also one step closer to leaving the Ford family on the day I'm discharged I stand at the villa entrance with my suitcase and know at once that I've come back at the wrong time the dining room is bright and loud the