Instead, she was honest.

‘Physically? I hope so. Emotionally? It depends on the support and therapy they receive. I guess only time will tell.’

‘Sophie called last night.’ Holly set the knife aside and turned around, leaning her back against the counter and wrapping her arms around her middle. ‘Jersey’s nightmares are so horrible, they had to give her a heavy sedative. Sophie said Aunt Natalia freaked out because Jersey was thrashing around like she was trying to get loose and screaming, “I thought you were…’” Holly’s voice cracked, and Alyssa guided her to a chair before sitting beside her. Tears falling freely now, Holly asked, ‘What are we supposed to do? Whenever Natalia tries to ask Jersey about her nightmare, Jersey has another anxiety attack, and they have to sedate her again.’

There was that elusive thread again. Alyssa reached across the table and grabbed a tissue, handing it to Holly. Then she put one finger beneath her daughter’s chin and tipped it up so she could look at her. ‘What Jersey and these girls went through is nothing short of horrendous and appalling. They’re bound to have nightmares for years to come. Even Isaac still has night terrors from his ordeal – not that I’m comparing the two. I’m just saying it’s going to take time.’

Holly shifted in her seat and shot a watery smile Alyssa’s way. ‘Thanks, Mom. I know you’re right; it’s just hard seeing her like this.’ Then a smile transformed her face. ‘Speaking of Isaac, he gets back today. I can’t wait to hear how things went.’

‘I think I’ll just be glad he’s back home with us.’ Alyssa knew that was one of the other reasons she’d kept so busy. She didn’t want to have any time to fret about Isaac being off in the woods. Besides, Trevor’s mom had promised to call if anything happened.

Holly cleared her throat, dragging Alyssa back and reminding her of her suspicion that her daughter had another motive for making her an omelet this morning. ‘Um, there’s something else I wanted to talk to you about… I went on a date with Nick Otis. It was only once, well, kind of twice.’

And there it was. ‘I gathered as much. I have to tell you I’m glad you already let Dad and me know that you weren’t attending Cornell in the fall, or I would’ve been concerned you were doing it for a guy.’

Holly frowned. ‘Please. I thought you knew me better than that. Besides, like I said, it was one – and a half – dates. We’re not picking out furniture and drapes, you know. He might not even want to see me again after…’ Instead of finishing that thought, she asked a question. ‘Is it going to bother you if I date him? I mean, will it affect your case at all?’

‘No, it won’t affect my case. If you like him, and he treats you well, then that’s what matters. How did you two meet, anyway?’