Chapter 94

The inside of the C-130 was like a tomb, quiet and somber for most of the journey. Susan was always surrounded by Patricia and Jemma, unless William tried to approach her. Whenever he did, Patricia would step away, creating an awkward tension between them that William couldn't seem to break. He desperately wanted to bridge the gap between them, but it seemed impossible. How could he convince Susan, the girl he'd raised as his own since she was born, that he'd done what he thought was best when she believed there was an easier way?

"Does she really think I didn't struggle with this too?" William thought to himself. "When Laura passed away, did she think I didn't want Susan with me? What stopped me? Why didn't I bring her to Italy? The answers are in my head somewhere, I just need to find them. I must have notes or something, but where did I put them? What was I doing after Laura died? I need to piece it together so I can explain it t