Maddie’s throat tightened. For the first time in years, she said the word she had avoided for so long. “Mom…” She choked on the word, then exhaled shakily. “I’ll come home.”
On the other end of the line, her mother’s voice cracked with relief. “Oh, Maddie… you’re finally coming back. Thank God. I’ll have your sister come pick you up immediately!”
“No,” Maddie said softly, her hand clutching her phone. “I still need a week to sort things out.”
Her mother’s tone shifted to gentle understanding. “Alright. Use this time to say goodbye properly, especially to Rico. He’s been like a brother to you for so long, taking care of you after the orphanage. If you leave without talking to him, it’ll be hard for both of you.”
“I understand,” Maddie replied, her voice faint.
When the call ended, Maddie stared at her phone. A new notification flashed:
[Rico Hughes and Jane Harper Confirmed as a Real Couple!]
The accompanying photo showed Rico and Jane locked in that now-infamous kiss. Maddie’s knees buckled as she collapsed onto the sidewalk, tears streaming uncontrollably.
***