ARIA

We're still in Uncle Barty's house when Anne shows up.

I really need to call her 'mom', but I can't bring myself to do it and I have no idea why. Ryder is out there, giving orders to keep a closer eye on the forest bordering the town.

Anne sits beside me on the couch and sighs as she looks around. "This house belonged to our parents. I grew up here, you know? It looks just the way I remember."

I don't know what to say to this, so I keep my mouth shut and sip my tea. It's chamomile. ...