John must have lost his mind, and Ara might have as well, because a quiet voice within her suggested that he was speaking the truth. It seemed plausible in a distorted sort of way. But why would her own mother undertake such an action? It was true their relationship wasn't the best, but families sometimes drift apart when tragedy strikes. Ara had always assumed that's what occurred when her father died unexpectedly. She had never blamed her mother for remarrying so soon after his demise or for spending less time with Ara as she built her new life.
"I know this is a lot to take in, angel, but you'll eventually see the logic, whether you want to or not." He reached for her hand, his face etched with a frown when she recoiled, not wanting his touch to sway her judgment.
"Don't 'angel' me! W
