When Elaine’s parents first passed away, the grief consumed her so completely it felt like a form of self-inflicted torture. She would claw at her own skin until it bled, as if the physical pain could somehow dull the unbearable ache of losing them.

The phrase '"longing cuts to the bone"' had never felt more true.

"She’s impossible—just like her father. Stubborn as a mule," Ceciia muttered, shaking her head. Patience was never her strong suit. ...