Chapter 24
VANESSA
I released my grip on Gracie and said, "Leave." She turned and headed for the door, but Mary heard the command and also started to move in that direction.
I hurriedly stopped her, grabbing her shoulder and shaking her gently. "Mary, snap out of it. It's Vanessa," I said, tapping her face. She blinked repeatedly, her eyes widening, and out of the blue, she pulled me into a tight hug.
"What just happened?" she whispered into my ear.
"I really don't know. I am so confused, Mary," I said as I gently pulled away and took her hand. "Please, you can't tell anyone."
"I promise, Vanessa, your secret is safe with me. It's almost as if I have this inexplicable feeling that I shouldn't share it with anyone. I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed at the moment, but I just have one ques
