Chapter 3

Gwen's expression shifted. Before she could explain, I suddenly clasped her hand and put on a look of grief and resignation.

"Forget it. You're right. We can't bring back the dead. Those of us still here have to move on."

I took a deep breath, my eyes slightly red. "I'll go."

Gwen clearly didn't expect me to agree so readily. Delight flashed in her eyes, and she nodded repeatedly. "Yes, exactly! Honey, I'm so glad you feel that way! My brother-in-law will be thrilled!"

"Wait a moment. I'll change."

I went into the bedroom. The instant I closed the door, every trace of grief vanished from my face.

On the way to Zachary Blake's house, Gwen bought the largest Barbie playset. It was the same gift Jade begged her for, but she never bought.

When Zachary opened the door, warm air rushed out to greet us.

The living room was filled with balloons and streamers. In the center of the wall hung an enlarged photograph.

Gwen held Keira while Zachary leaned close beside them. All three smiled brightly, like a family of three.

A sharp pain gripped my heart, and my nails dug into my palms.

Zachary wore a plain white shirt and welcomed us warmly, but his gaze passed over me and settled on Gwen. "Gwen, you're here."

I stared at the photograph. "What a lovely picture. Anyone who didn't know better would think this was the real family."

Zachary paled slightly and explained awkwardly, "We took that at the amusement park last year. Gwen felt sorry for Keira growing up without a mother, so she gave her some extra attention."

"Yes. Some extra attention." I repeated the words pointedly and looked at Keira as she ran out of her room.

Keira was six, a lovely little girl with rosy cheeks.

She wore a new dress and flung herself straight into Gwen's arms, calling brightly, "Mommy!"

The room went still.

Gwen was so startled she nearly threw the child out of her arms.

She hastily covered Keira’s mouth. “She’s just confused. She’s been playing house with her friends too much.”

Zachary quickly pulled Keira away and pretended to scold her. "Keira, stop that! She's your aunt!"

Keira pouted. "But Daddy, you said Aunt Gwen is..."

"Keira!" Zachary raised his voice and cut her off.

I stood beside them and understood everything.

I took the gift box I'd prepared from my bag and handed it to Keira.

"I got you a present too, Keira."

Keira's eyes lit up, and she eagerly opened it.

Inside was a realistic toy pistol, its dark muzzle pointed straight at her.

Gwen's expression changed. "Honey, why would you give her that? It's too dangerous!"

I stood up and looked down at the panicked pair, a cruel smile curling my lips.

"Dangerous? This is what Jade wanted more than anything. I got it especially for Keira. I hope she can use it to protect the heart that was... so hard to come by."

"After all, you always have to worry that someone will come to reclaim what you stole."

Zachary's face went deathly pale. The glass in his hand fell to the floor and shattered.