Page 61 of One Wild Ride

She tapped at it, reading whatever caught her attention.

“It’s your father. I have to go, Aria,” my mother said refusing to look at me.

“But you’ll come back, right?”

I got up as she made her way to the door. She opened the door and turned to me.

“It was wonderful to see you again. I meant it, I’m so very proud of you. Can I have one more hug before I go?”

I’d lost her. Just one word from my father, whatever he sent her, and she was lost once again.

“Of course, Mom. I miss you. I’ll always be there for you.”

She pulled me close. Her arms tightened around me. I felt the tears begin to fall as I tried to hold them back. Just before she let go she whispered into my ear, “Run as far as you can and don’t ever look back.”