Chapter 3

The gentle, soothing touch warmed me up inside, easing some of the coldness in my heart.

At breakfast, I went to serve coffee to my mother-in-law, Yvette Hurlbutt.

As soon as I entered the main hall, I saw Leigh seated beside Yvette, dabbing at her tears with a handkerchief.

Wayne stood next to her, murmuring words of comfort.

When she saw me come in, Leigh quickly stood up, swaying delicately like a fragile willow in the wind.

"You're here. Last night was all my fault. I kept Wayne from spending time with you," Leigh said, her voice trembling.

"As long…