#Chapter 89: Out in the Open

That afternoon, I prepare to make my transition home. I talk to my mom and tell her I will be back within the week. I can hear the relief in her voice and it makes me yearn to see her. To be honest, I appreciate her even more now that I know she chose to keep me and love me as her own, though I’m disappointed she never told me the truth. I also text Hailey to tell her that camp is almost over. When I first left, I told her I didn’t know how many weeks I would stay to allow some leniency and to keep her from getting suspicious. She’s excited to catch up, and I promise to call her when I get back. That evening, we return to see Michael, who is looking substantially better. He’s sitting up and some color has returned to his face. He also already has a visitor. Sitting on the side of his bed—holding his hand—is Rita. Then it hits me. She didn’t want Alex because she’s already in love…with his brother. I can tell, because the look in her eyes is the same one I see in the mirror. Alex,