It took a minute for me to even get a single word out. “Ford,” I whispered between sniffles.

She nodded, understanding, not asking anything more. “I’m so sorry you’re hurting.” She took my hand, squeezing it. “I’m here for you, always.”

“I know. Thank you.” Caelyn always knew the right thing to say—or not say. She never judged or criticized, simply supported wherever you were on your journey. I snuggled deeper under the covers. “Love you.”

“Forever, sister.”

I forced my eyes closed, trying to think of anything but the look of devastation on Ford’s face, the feel of his betrayal across my skin. I’m not alone. I said it over and over again in my head until sleep finally claimed me.

“Bells! You’re here, and it’s not even the weekend!”

I grinned at Mia as I flipped a pancake on the stove. “I had an impromptu sleepover with Caelyn last night.”

Her hands went to her small hips. “You had a sleepover and didn’t tell me?”

I bit back a laugh. “How about we have our own this weekend?” Mia’s lips pressed together as if she were considering whether that was enough to make amends. “I’ll bring treats from The Mad Baker…”

She brightened. “Deal!”

Treats made everything better. I slid the final pancake out of the pan and onto the platter. “Go grab your seat, Mi, the pancakes are ready.”

“Yes!” She shot her little fist into the air and ran for the table.

“Hey, Bell.” Will sauntered into the kitchen. “You stay over last night?”

“I did, and my payment is pancakes.”

Will’s gaze traveled over my face, lingering on my eyes that I knew were still red and a little bit puffy. He didn’t say a word about it, though. “I’ll get everyone’s drinks.”

The whole crew gathered around the table. Caelyn smiled at me. “Thanks for making breakfast.”

“Anytime.”

The meal was filled with laughter and getting updates on what the kids had been up to at school and after this week. Ava was competing in a spelling bee. Mia was thinking about taking gymnastic classes this summer. And I even got Will to open up about what books in English class he was enjoying. It was just what I needed.

After breakfast, Caelyn and I sat on the front porch steps, keeping an eye on the kids as they waited for their buses. She knocked her shoulder into mine lightly. “How ya feeling this morning?”

I blew out a long breath. “I’m not really sure. Not as raw as last night.”

“That’s good.” She stayed silent then, letting the quiet draw more out of me.

“He thought I blamed him for Vi’s death.”

Caelyn inhaled sharply. “Seriously?”