The Breaking Point of Love

The Scent of 80

As Celeste drove away from the equestrian center, she found herself unsure of where to go.

the

Lottie and Matthias had their own plans, and while she considered going back to the Rodriguez residence, thought of returning alone without Jordyn made her hesitate–Betty would only grow more concerned for her.

These thoughts swirled in her mind as she passed a wetland park. Families were camping, couples were enjoying time together, and young adults were bringing their parents out for a relaxing day.

Seeing their happy, loving interactions, Celeste couldn’t help but feel a twinge of envy and an ache deep in her chest.

After driving for a while longer, she suddenly pulled over.

She picked up her phone, hesitating for a long moment before finally dialing a number.

When the call connected, she asked, “Hello, Dr. Harrison. How is my mother doing?”

An hour and a half later, Celeste arrived at Harmony Nursing Home.

Standing in the courtyard, her gaze fell on a frail, vacant–looking Isabelle seated on a bench in the distance. Isabelle’s face was gaunt and hollow. It was a stark contrast to the vibrant, beautiful woman Celeste remembered from her childhood.

Even though Celeste had grown accustomed to this sight over the years, her heart still couldn’t find peace.

A soft voice broke her thoughts. “She’s the same as always no change,” Noah said.

Isabelle couldn’t be exposed to people from her past. Any such encounter would send her spiraling into another episode. Her current state of rare tranquility was something Celeste dared not disturb.

while, worried that Isabelle might notice her

said to Noah and the staff caring

too kind, Ms.

behind some books and supplies she had brought for her, she

body had departed the nursing house, her

Celeste passed the wetland

impulsively turned her car around and drove

breeze caressed her face, the sunshine was warm, and the scenery was

everyone around her seemed to have company–families, couples, or friends. Alone, she felt out

a small stall, debating whether to buy a kite for herself, a small hand suddenly grabbed her finger and shook it

“Ms. Rodriguez.”

turned in

slightly. She was still

Chapter 00

+25 BONUS

“Shanice

and his voice trailed off when he saw Celeste. After a brief pause, he asked, “Are

“Yes,” Celeste replied.

bring Jo

her gaze and said flatly;

Beck seemed to understand something and didn’t

close with Beck, Celeste was about to excuse herself when Shanice looked up and said, Ms. Rodriguez, let’s