She never expected Jessie to push her away.

Jeslyn never expected Jessie to reject her.

Despite her young age, Jeslyn saw a hint of revulsion on Jessie's face.

She wondered if Jessie despised her.

Did Jessie only stick around because she felt bad for the kidnapping?

Jeslyn's lips quivered.

Another flash of lightning illuminated the room, casting a pallor over Jeslyn's face. She released her embrace of Jessie and stood silently, fixing her gaze on Jessie, her trembling lips a fiery red.

Jeslyn wanted to speak but the words eluded her.

Across from Jeslyn, Jessie reminded herself not to give in to pity.

It wouldn't do to be soft-hearted with Jeslyn.

A tear trickled down the girl's cheek.

She retreated to the sofa, clutching her favorite plushy.

Thunder boomed outside, rattling her nerves, yet she refrained from calling out to Jessie or pleading for her to be her mom again.

Jessie remained rooted in place.

She couldn't tell how long she stood there until her legs grew sore.

Finally, she approached, gently placing her hand on Jeslyn's shoulder and murmuring, "I'm not leaving. I'll stay with you tonight."

Jeslyn remained motionless, silent for what felt like an eternity.

Thinking Jeslyn was still upset and avoiding her, Jessie withdrew her hand and lowered her gaze. "I'll call your dad then."

Before she could turn away, she was enveloped in a tight hug.

Jeslyn clung to Jessie, burying her face against her. In a hushed tone, Jeslyn whispered "Mommy" to Jessie. Having never experienced a mother's love, Jeslyn only associated the term with someone her dad admired.