Back at the house, Zeke was seated in the living room. Maeko stood to one side grinning, her hands clasped, while Verchiel stood near the couple, typing on his phone.

Sharon knelt in front of Zeke. Her hand trembled as she lifted it to his face and brushed his cheek with her fingertips. When he caught her hand in his, she burst into tears and threw herself into his arms, burying her face in his chest.

"Why didn't you come with me?" she wailed.

"I'm sorry." He ...