46 × Just Say What You Want

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A nauseating mix of worry, pity, and shock pooled deep in her gut. What he said just halted her breathing. Her guess was not far from the truth at all.

But how did his mother die in that psychiatric facility? Nobody told her that Mrs. Roiz had been critically ill. And Darren didn't mention anything over the phone.

"I'm sorry." Jessi sat close to her tightlipped boss. "Sorry about your mom."

Would he mind if she hugged him again? How should she console him? By apologizing for not knowing anything about his mother's condition?

The shock gradually turned into pure sympathy for his emotional state. She should've been more attentive to him. She should've asked if he wanted company, before she let him step out of his truck to see his mom. Jessi swore inwardly. She'd stupidly assumed it was just a random visit. "Is that why you... Why d'you have bloodstains on your shirt?"

"It's her blood." Jenson snuffled and kept his head down. His left hand clutched the bloodstained sleeve of his sweatsh