This number was too familiar to her.

It was only one digit different from her mother's original number. Back when she was three years old, Melisa had insisted she memorize it. But when she turned five, her mother "died unexpectedly," and the number became disconnected.

Celia answered the call, and sure enough, Melisa's carefree voice came through.

"Good morning, Celia! Have you had breakfast yet? You look like you've lost weight recently."

Celia took a deep breath and ...