Flashback: Misty knelt among the weeds, the Spring sun beating down on her back. Each tug at the stubborn roots reminded her of the burdens she carried. Pale green leaves crunched underfoot as Jared approached, his hands stained with dirt.
“What a glamorous life, huh?” He chuckled, shaking his head. “Just another day in the garden,” she replied, forcing a smile that faded quickly. “Shayla and the mod squad got you working like a field hand. Need a break?”
“Not until these are done.” Misty's hands continued to claw through the earth, desperate to bury her thoughts as far down as the roots hid in the soil. “Come on. You shouldn’t have to be out here.You're top smart for this.” He stepped closer, knelt beside her. “You’ll drown in the muck if you keep this up.”
“Look, Jared, I can’t just a
