Thomas turned to look at me, almost like he wasn’t expecting to see me there so soon. Then he smiled and patted the bench beside him.

“Is everything okay? What about mom and dad?” I blurted out.

He smiled again. “Take a breath, Ciana. I’m not bringing you bad news, well, not too bad anyway. There are always some troubles out there, but nothing too crazy. Come, sit with me.”

I let out a breath of relief. Nodding, I kicked my feet into action and ...