Page 157 of Dream On, Liar

“I believe you'll find that explained inside.”

I almost laughed. “That's helpful.”

“I’ve learned not to spoil your mother’s surprises.”

There was something in the phrasing that made me glance at him.

He nodded towards the album. “She left very specific instructions.”

I took it, and the weight of it settled into my palms.

“Thank you.”

He dipped his head. “Of course.”

I shut the door.

For several seconds, I stood there without moving.

Then I carried everything to the kitchen and placed it on the counter beside the photograph.

I didn’t open it.

Not yet.

I couldn’t explain why.

Maybe because I’d already had enough memories for one evening.

I glanced towards the hallway again as a soft bang filtered through the cabin.

Maeve.

I found myself moving before I made the decision.

I knocked softly on her door.

“Maeve?”

“Yeah?”

Her voice was faint.

I opened the door.

She had just stepped out of the bathroom.

Her hair was damp around her face, and she'd changed into one of the oversized jumpers I’d packed for her earlier. Her sleeves swallowed most of her hands. She stood there staring at the room like she couldn't remember what she was supposed to do next.

Her eyes lifted to mine.

There was something lost in them.

Not confusion exactly. More like the world had become too large and she didn't know where to place herself inside it.

Something had happened.

“How can I help?”