As Sherilyn changed her clothes, her phone buzzed with a message from Joyce.
[Sherilyn, I told Gilbert about your situation.]
She paused, momentarily surprised. So, he knows now?
Well, so be it.
After stepping out of the bathroom, Sherilyn slipped out of her hospital gown and into her own clothes.
Just then, Candida entered. Ms. Gomez, the discharge papers are ready. Shall we go?
Yes.
Sherilyn nodded. Let’s head home.
If they delayed any longer, Jenna would start looking for her, and that would only make her upset.
On the way back, Sherilyn made a special stop at Crimson Table to pick up Jenna’s favorite blueberry cake and some freshly baked custard tarts.
When they arrived at Blue Haven, Jenna was already in her lessons.
Sherilyn lingered quietly at the doorway for a while before turning to the housekeeper. Put the cake away, please. Bring it out after Jenna’s class. Of course, Ms. Gomez.
The day unfolded in peaceful routine, with Sherilyn spending time by Jenna’s side, everything feeling just as it always had.
That evening, after dinner, it was just mother and daughter. Gilbert still hadn’t returned.
Even after Jenna drifted off to sleep, there was no sign of him.
It was unusual-no matter how busy he was, he always made time to be with Jenna.
Sherilyn understood. Most likely, whatever Joyce had told him… was still working on his mind.
Ms. Gomez.
A housekeeper came to her with a message. Mr. Charles just called. Mr. Nine won’t be coming home tonight. He asked us to pack some of his clothes and medication to send to the office… He said you might want to pack them yourself.
Mr. Nine was notoriously particular. He really didn’t like others touching his personal belongings.
Not coming home?
Sherilyn froze for a moment, then nodded. Alright.
She made her way to his room, walked into the closet, and took out a small suitcase. As she sorted through his clothes, her fingers paused over a particular section.
This one…?
She recognized it immediately. Pulling it out, her eyes stung with sudden emotion.
It was an old pink shirt-plain cotton, the stitching not especially fine or tight.
She had sewn this shirt for him herself, ten years ago.
It was carefully protected in a clear garment cover. When she unzipped it, the shirt looked as good as new.
Sherilyn blinked back tears. She’d always assumed he’d thrown it away long ago.
Ms. Gomez? Are you finished? the housekeeper called from outside.
Yes, just about! Sherilyn replied quickly, forcing her thoughts aside.
Take your time.
She finished packing the suitcase, snapped it shut, and brought it outside, handing it over to the
Did you remember the fruit snacks?
Don’t worry, Ms. Gomez, I’ve got them, the housekeeper
2 Orry, Ms. Gomez, I’ve got à smile. Anything answernet
That’s all. Thank you.
You’re welcome.
5
After seeing the housekeeper off, Sherilyn returned to her room, walking straight to the sofa. She picked up a bag resting there.
Inside was the sweater she’d been knitting for him.
She’d been working on it nearly a year now-just one sleeve left before it was done.
It wasn’t even nine o’clock yet.
Sherilyn murmured to herself, Maybe I can finish it tonight.
She picked up her needles and yarn and continued where she’d left off…
Days passed. Gilbert didn’t come home.
No calls, no messages-no contact with Sherilyn at all.
At lunch, Sherilyn noticed that Jenna was unusually quiet, pushing her food around her plate.
What’s wrong? Sherilyn asked gently. Aren’t you hungry, Jenna?
Mommy, Jenna looked up, her lips pursed in a tiny pout, Isn’t Daddy coming home? I miss him.
Sherilyn’s heart ached. So that was it.