ROBERT

"I'm glad you had a good time, Renee. It has been a joy to host you."

"Thank you so much for everything. This was incredible." Renee responded in kind and I watched her eyes flit over my shoulder when she finished her last sentence.

Her shoulders stooped slightly, indicating she wasn't only talking about Mrs. Herbert's hospitality. She meant more with her comments, which were directed at me.

I knew it, and as my gaze remained fixed on her and the frail older woman sweetly holding ...