Chapter 18

'Jail!' She stared at her father in complete disbelief, fully anticipating that he would refute David's ridiculous remark. She pleaded with him to dispel the notion that it was even conceivable.

Her father mumbled an apology before rising to his feet and leaving the room. He was no longer the energetic guy with blue eyes that she adored; rather, he was a weary old man who looked every one of his sixty years plus ten more years than he was. His shoulders were sagged, his eyes were dim, and his face was pale and weathered. She was aware that David was being honest with her. Her father lowered his arm and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder, and she instinctively reached up to cover it with her own.

He was exhausted when he remarked to Anna, "I never meant for this to happen."

"If it's okay with you, I won't go to lunch with you," her father said weakly. Take David with you instead; he will be able to explain what has occurred far better than I c