"Elena, thank you!" Talaiah clutched Elena's hands, her face filled with grateful emotion.
Elena withdrew one hand to give a reassuring shoulder pat.
"Don't blame yourself! This is my fault—I knew Jonas was a predator, yet I still let him in that night! I thought locking my bedroom door would protect you, but..." Her voice trailed off guiltily.
Talaiah kept her face downcast, her expression hidden.
"Let's not dwell on the past, Elena. Mom and I will rebuild our lives overseas. That compensation money—we'd never have gotten it without your help."
With a sigh, Elena squeezed her hand. "Just promise you'll call if you need anything, understood?"
"I will. Goodbye for now."
"Take care of yourselves."
Elena watched as Talaiah supported her trembling mother through customs. Only when they
