"Gladys?" She widened her eyes in practiced surprise. "You're back? Leo's still sleeping..."
I cut her off.
"Last I checked, I don't need permission to enter my own home."
"Move."
"That's not what I meant." She planted herself in the doorway, chin lifted in defiance.
"But Mr. James is still resting, and you seem upset, Gladys. I was worried you might disturb him..."
I didn't waste my breath on her. I shoved her aside.
"Move."
Leo woke from the commotion and emerged from the bedroom on his crutches.
Seeing the tension crackling between us, he frowned.
"What's going on?"
Virginia's tears spilled before she could even speak.
"Mr. James, I'm so sorry. You were exhausted last night, and I just wanted to let you sleep longer. I didn't mean to offend Gladys."
She sobbed in little hiccups, the picture of a bullied bunny.
But her ears were flushed a telling crimson.
Leo turned his head to cough twice before speaking.
"Gladys, you've really misunderstood Virginia. Apologize to her."
I ignored him and sat down on the sofa.
My gaze drifted to the display shelf. The framed photo of Leo and me was gone.
In its place sat a glass jar filled with paper wishing stars—folded by Virginia's own hands.