Chapter 49

Jane lay in bed, staring at the ceiling. The day felt like a double-edged sword, offering both respite and a chance to sink deeper into her thoughts. She had asked Caleb for permission to take the day off, and he had granted it without hesitation, instructing the maids to tend to her every need.

But Jane found herself unable to leave her bed, surrounded by memories of her father and haunted by the memorial. Or reunion as they had tagged it.

She picked up her phone and scrolled through pictures of her father, his warm smile and gentle eyes staring back at her. She wondered how long Abigail had known about his death and why she hadn't mentioned it. Burying her face in her pillow, Jane let the tears flow freely.

A soft knock interrupted her thoughts, but she didn't bother to ask who it was. She knew the way Caleb knocked. She heaved a heavy breath and managed to croak out, "Come in.”

Caleb entered, looking stressed. His eyes softened when he saw her disheveled