Despite this, lying in bed and enduring the pain, Caroline could not help but start to cry, feeling deeply wronged.

When Darren came in and saw her crying, he walked over, sat on the edge of the bed, and gently wiped her tears with a tissue.

“They’re not worth your tears,” he said, his heart aching for her.

Caroline sat up and buried herself in his arms. “Darren, you’re all I have now.”

Darren held her tightly, his voice filled with tenderness. “I’ll always be by your side, no matter what happens, Ms. Caroline. Even if the sky falls, I’ll hold it up for you.

“If you’re really hurting and need to cry, then cry. Let it all out.”

It would also help her sever ties with the past and the family bonds that had caused her so much pain.

Caroline did cry—a long, cathartic cry. It would be the last time. From now on, she and the Clarks would go their separate ways.

Meanwhile, Hunter went to Justin’s house and called Jason’s wife, Ellie, over.

He said to his two daughters-in-law, “By no