Fifty two

Are you okay?" Tara questioned Hailey with curiosity as they walked back into the banquet hall. Hailey hadn't spent more than a few minutes outside, but in Tara's eyes, it seemed like she had been gone for a whole day.

"I'm fine," Hailey responded quietly and took her seat again. Tara glanced back at Hailey, her gaze indicating that she didn't believe her. Tara hesitated for a moment but decided not to press the issue. She didn't want to pressure Hailey or make her uncomfortable.

Hailey appeared visibly disturbed, unable to concentrate on Thomas' words. When she finally realized Thomas was speaking to her, she snapped out of the trance she had fallen into.

Thomas raised an eyebrow curiously. "Are you sure you're okay, Miss?"

Hailey took a deep breath and turned to Tara instead. "Can I speak with you for a moment?"

Tara, who was already curious, quickly stood up. The rest of the family watched as they walked outside together. Hailey was just slightly taller than Tara, and anyone wh