Chapter 17

Steve paused, as if weighing his schedule. Then, he said, "I'll be back Friday afternoon. Give me two days." I let out a small breath of relief. At least he had agreed. On my way back, I had already consulted the funeral home. They said it was best to hold the burial during the day. Holding it in the evening was not so convenient for them, as it would be close to the time when they would get off work. Even so, I didn't dare ask for more. I was afraid Steve would change his mind. At noon two days later, my child would finally get to experience her father's love for once. After setting the time perfunctorily, Steve followed Isabel upstairs. I returned to the guest room and stood by the window, watching as Dorothy skipped along between Isabel and Steve, one hand holding each of theirs. The driver and Jake trailed behind them, dragging two large suitcases. Even Dorothy's white Labrador went along on the trip. I smiled wanly and picked up the medication Edwin had prescribed. Then, I