When they finally pulled up to the house, Valerie was waiting for them by the entrance. Her eyes were red and swollen, and as soon as she saw Riley, her expression softened.

Riley stepped out of the car, her movements robotic, her gaze still vacant. Valerie rushed towards her, pulling her into a tight hug. Riley stood still for a moment before her arms slowly came up to return the embrace.

“Riley, I’m so sorry,” Valerie whispered, her voice breaking.

Riley said nothing, her eyes ...