Chapter 26 Melissa

• I took a time to gather myself when Frank departed, and then I went to Kiesha's room. Her breathing was shallow but regular as she lay down to rest. I gave her hand a light squeeze and enjoyed the feel of her skin on mine.
• Mrs. Julie Harris, Kiesha's mother, sat in the room's corner, her face worn with weariness. When I walked in, she looked up, tears welling up around her crimson eyes. She murmured, "Thank you for helping, Melissa."
• "Obviously, Mrs. Harris...it's my fault in the first instance isn't it?" I said in an attempt to sound comforting. "How is she doing?"