Meanwhile, at the Walters' house.
Stella had just stepped out of the car, dragging her small suitcase behind her, when the front door burst open.
Her mother came rushing out, as if she'd been standing guard all morning.
The way Alicia's face pinched with worry instantly made Stella's stomach twist.
Stella opened her mouth, ready with a cheerful, "I'm home, Mom," but she didn't get the chance.
"Stella, why are you only arriving now?" Alicia blurted, eyes wide and frantic. "I thought you were coming back yesterday. Last night, your father came home and was looking for you. He is worried about you..."
Stella froze mid-step. Those words hit her like ice water down her back.
'Dad… came back? And he looks for me? Did I hear the best joke ever?'
Her father hadn't asked about her in months, maybe years. He barely came home anymore, claiming illness recovery and endless business trips.
The last time he'd sat at the family dinner table, she couldn't even remember.
