"Alisha!" Mary hurried into the room, her footsteps echoing with haste, and glanced at the kids and Alisha gathered together.

"Mother," Alisha stood up, walking towards her, eager to know if everything had gone well.

Mary sadly smiled as she hugged Alisha, her thoughts filled with remorse. 'I'm sorry, Alisha. I never wanted this, but please forgive me someday. I don't know if I'll ever be able to forgive myself, but I hope you can.'

Her heart ached as she embraced Alisha, knowing that what ...