Chapter 18

Jeffery was skeptical at first, but when he clicked the link his friend sent and saw my post saying, "What's a good gift for someone you've known for decades?", he was convinced it was about him. As far as he could recall, I hardly had any friends, not to mention that he was the only man among them. So, he figured the gift was most likely meant for him. He was all but certain I'd realized my mistake and was trying to make it up to him with the perfect gift. That thought brought a smile to his face. He promised himself, "When she finally comes crawling back, I'll put her in her place so she never dares walk out or hurl those hurtful words at me again." Just then, his phone lit up with a text from Samuel. "Dad, how's it going over there? Have you found Mom yet? Douglas and Daphne really miss her. They ask for her every day, and I'm worried it's taking an emotional toll on them." Just moments ago, Jeffery had been on edge. But now, with newfound confidence, he called and said, "Every