Chapter 33

Daisy pouted and shook her head, her displeasure evident. Benjamin grabbed her tiny hand and started walking without hesitation. "She's not going to cause any trouble. What are you so worried about? That old lady won't say anything," he said confidently. Layla hesitated, worried that the language arts teacher might not accept such a young child in her classroom. But before she could stop them, Benjamin was already leading Daisy away. Layla watched the siblings disappear down the hall, a smile tugging at her lips. She couldn't help but wonder what the future held for their relationship. Layla knew for sure that Daisy's growing bond with her brother and father was beyond her control. ... The weekend arrived quickly. Sylvia, finally discharged from the hospital, insisted on taking Layla and Daisy to the mall. They stayed out late, only heading home in the evening. In the underground parking lot, the three of them wandered in circles, unable to locate the car. Sylvia laughed.