Before Lorraine could say anything more, Alina stood up, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. She gave a soft, tired smile. "Goodnight. Good job tonight. I’m going to bed." She smiled and walked off, leaving Lorraine in the living room, her thoughts swirling with everything they had just discussed a few seconds ago.

Lorraine stayed still for a few seconds, watching Alina disappear into her bedroom. Then, the moment Alina's door closed, she stood up and entered the room without ...