Chapter 229

After that, Valeria took leave from work. On July 12, the elementary school closed its doors for the summer. Valeria brought Margaret and Selena back to Slate City. Margaret had always wanted to meet Lucy. The two of them, upon meeting, immediately got along as if they had known each other forever. Lucy had been of an older age when she gave birth to Shane. Now, at 66, she insisted on calling Margaret her friend, and Margaret felt the same. The two sat together on the couch, hands clasped, chatting away the entire afternoon. Valeria didn't stop them. She knew some things couldn't be hidden—like her marriage. For example, when Shane came home from work, pushing open the door. Apparently, Lucy had messaged him. He knew Valeria was there with Margaret and Selena, and he brought fruit with him. Selena happily called out to him, "Mr. Cooper." Valeria lowered her gaze slightly. She could feel Margaret's eyes on her. … During dinner, Lucy coughed lightly, breaking the silence at th