“She is.”
Tina’s jaw tightens. “That woman shouldn’t be allowed within ten feet of a school, let alone a group home.”
I rest my head back against the couch. “I feel like I’m drowning in this.”
“You’re not,” Tina says, her voice steady. “I’ve got you. We’ll take it one step at a time.”
***
When I finally pry open my bloodshot eyes, I squint at the clock. It’s almost eight o’clock, but it feels like I haven't slept at all. Every time I tried to relax, I’d see Cal’s handsome face, his eyes pleading with me to believe him.
I can’t.
There are just too many coincidences.
What if I'm wrong? I keep asking myself as I prepare to face another day with so many questions and no answers.
Half an hour later, I walk into the kitchen and am met with the aroma of fresh brewed coffee and toast—Tina’s staple breakfast fare.
“Do you want some scrambled eggs?” she asks when her eyes land on me. “You look terrible.”
“Thanks,” I say, reaching for a mug from the cupboard.
“Listen, Elle,” Tina begins, and the tone in her voice tells me she has something significant to say.
“What?” I ask, meeting her gaze.
“When I went out for a run this morning, your keepsake box and the gift bag were sitting by the door. They’re on the coffee table.”
“I don’t want them,” I say.
“I think you should see what’s inside,” she replies.
“You looked?” I ask.
“Not exactly,” she begins. “Not on purpose, anyway. And I’m not really sure what I saw, but I think it’s a child's drawing.”
“Beth,” I say, already walking away.
“That’s what I thought too,” she says, following me into the living room.
The first thing I pull out of the bag is a drawing—bright butterflies lining a blue sky, the nameIzzyscrawled in big letters across the top.
Next is a lock of blonde hair tied with a purple ribbon, sealed in a plastic bag. A date is written on the front, along with the wordsfirst haircut.
Then comes a short note, written in elegant cursive. It’s dated four days after Izzy and I were separated.
Dear Dani,
My name is Johanna Callahan. I’m fostering your little sister, Izzy. She misses you very much and hopes she’ll be able to see you soon.
When your counselor gives permission for us to visit, I'll bring Izzy by to see you.
In the meantime, please know she is safe and well taken care of.
Sincerely,
Johanna
