I’m smiling as I walk toward the auditorium. That’s when I spot him. Detective Branson. I suppose the police always attend graduation of the local high school kids, right? But detectives don’t, do they?

“Hello, Mrs. Harris. Beautiful evening for a ceremony. You must be so proud of Betsy.” He tips his hat.

“I am. She pushed through somehow this year. With everything that’s happened. She’s stronger than she looks, that’s for sure.” I couldn’t be more witty if I tried. I’ll admit, I worked on that little statement for a bit.

“I’ll see you inside.” He stays rooted to his lookout spot as I keep walking toward the doors.

They are letting parents into the room already, even though I’d anticipated having to wait outside. My new blue dress, a tight-fitting number, is drawing attention, along with, I’m sure, the four-inch heels I’ve added to my ensemble. I look as though I could be jetting off to a film festival instead of joining the masses in an uncomfortable wooden auditorium chair. Oh well. That’s my next life, act two. Starting tomorrow.

I walk about halfway down toward the stage and find a row with some empty seats. I wonder, who deserves my kindness? Well, David will need a shoulder to cry on. He’s already having a terrible day and it’s about to get worse. My in-laws? Sure, why not. Those wretched people should sit next to their son, watch him as he falls apart. I know that will hurt them, too.

I sit on the aisle. They will all cross me to sit down. They all already have.

I search the growing crowd for a familiar face and spot Sandy and Josh. I’m shocked they’re here. Josh feels my stare and turns. He won’t make eye contact, and I’m certain he knows I’ve learned of his chat with the police. I smile at the back of his head.

A hand on my shoulder. I look up into the face of Sarah Murphy. Why is she here? Is she always lurking around school? She needs a life.

“Jane, don’t you look gorgeous. Congratulations on Betsy’s graduation. I heard she won a special award. Aren’t you just the proudest?”

Oooh, Sarah, I am not. “Yes, it’s wonderful. Can’t wait to see what it is.”

“Me, too. Okay, enjoy. I saw David in the parking lot. He should be right in,” she adds.

“Oh goodie.” My smile drops as she walks away.

“Jane, are these seats for me and my parents?” It’s David. He looks like hell. Like he’s frantic with worry. Like the love of his life just fled across the border. Of course, he doesn’t know where she went. And I’ll never tell.

I stand. “Welcome to the happy Harris row.”