When I arrived at the Mercer estate, it was just after lunch. Tessa was outside, tending to her flowers. As soon as she saw me, she set down her shears and came toward me.

"Elaine, you're back! I've missed you so much. You naughty girl, how could you turn off your phone? You worried me to death," Tessa scolded gently, taking my hand with a mix of anger and relief.

"Tessa, I'm sorry for worrying you. I heard you were ill," I said softly, guilt creeping in. ...