Anthony’s eyes narrowed as he stared at the woman. His chest tightened, the air suddenly feeling thin. This was her—Anna’s mother. The woman whose face was etched into his darkest memories, the one responsible for his own mother’s death.
“What are you doing, Anna?” her mother asked, her voice sharp and impatient. “Come with me.” She reached out a hand, but Anthony remained frozen. He couldn’t move; his limbs felt like lead while his heart hammered against his ribs. The world around him blurred into a dull hum.
Nearby, Jake stepped into view. His jaw set and his fists balled at his sides as he saw Anna standing so close to Anthony. A dark look crossed his face; Anthony was ruining everything.
“What don’t you get, Mom?” Anna’s voice trembled despite her attempt to stay calm. “You can’t fo
