Chapter 757:

Kallie’s relationship with Elma had grown stronger during her hospital stay. The children visited her after school, filling the room with laughter. Elma, who once kept her distance, now spoke freely with Kallie.

This warmed Kallie’s heart. Her spirits lifted as her recovery sped up.

One afternoon, Sophie approached Kallie, looking uncharacteristically hesitant. “Mom, can I talk to you about something?”

Kallie’s heart sank. Sophie rarely acted this way. “Is something wrong at school, Sophie? Are you being bullied?” she asked, her voice laced with concern.

Sophie shook her head. “No, it’s this.”

Sophie handed Kallie a letter. It was an invitation to an international children’s music competition.

Kallie wasn’t too familiar with the music world, but she understood enough to know the prestige of such a competition. If Sophie could win, it would be a huge step forward in her life. The invitation came after Sophie was recognized by several professionals in her field. Kallie’s face lit up. “This is amazing! When is it? We’ll all go with you.”

Sophie bit her lip. “I’m not so sure, but it’s either next week or by the end of the month. I’ll need to be there for at least two weeks if I attend.”

Kallie immediately understood Sophie’s dilemma. With everyone focused on searching for Jake, Sophie didn’t want to be a burden. The longer the delay, the slimmer the chances of finding Jake.

Caught in a tug-of-war, Kallie felt torn between her desire to find her husband and the deep need to be there for Sophie. She was forced to make a decision that couldn’t be avoided.

Sophie paused, carefully considering her words. Then, with determination, she spoke. “Mom, I can go on my own. You don’t have to worry about me. I’m almost thirteen. I can handle it.”

Kallie gently took her hand. “Sophie, it’s not that I don’t trust you. You’ve always been responsible. But this is a huge opportunity for you. I’ll make sure we’re all there with you.”

Sophie’s eyes softened with warmth.

However, doubt lingered in her voice. “But what about my dad?” Kallie sighed deeply. “We’ll keep searching. He’ll be okay. We have to believe that.”

Sophie nodded, though she still looked troubled. Kallie pulled her into a hug. “When the time comes, Elma, Calvin, and I will accompany you. Don’t worry about school. Elma and Calvin can miss a few days.”

Calvin and Elma were in elementary school, and their academic performance was outstanding. This was a pivotal moment for Sophie. Missing a few days of school wouldn’t hurt Calvin and Elma.

Sophie’s smile finally returned. She snuggled closer to Kallie as she said, “Thanks. You’re the best.” Kallie playfully tapped Sophie’s nose with affection.

Suddenly, an idea crossed Kallie’s mind. Why wait around for news when she could search for Jake herself? She planned to visit the location where Cara’s body had been found. If she and Jake shared the connection she believed they did when they were in love, maybe she could find him.

Unexpectedly, Clayton had the same thought. “I was planning to go and wanted to ask if you’d join me, but I wasn’t sure if your condition could handle it. After all, you’ve only just recovered. I don’t want you getting sick again from the journey.”

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