The smell of coffee and freshly baked goods greeted me as I stepped into Liz's parents' home, the warmth of their hospitality easing the weight in my chest. Liz's mom, Lara, pulled me into a tight hug as soon as we arrived, while her dad's booming laughter filled the air.
"You're thinner than last time, Abigail," Lara said, her hands firm on my shoulders. "I'm fixing that. Dinner tonight is chicken soup and apple pie. Non-negotiable."
Liz rolled her eyes fondly. "Told you, Abby. She's going to fatten you up like a prize turkey."
I couldn't help but laugh softly, the sound surprising even me. It had been days since I'd laughed like that.
———
Later that morning, as I unpacked my bag in Liz's bedroom, I found the email from Edward waiting in my inbox. The subject line was simple: Checking In.
Abigail,
