The Day I Kissed An Older Man

'But how did he know where Mom's ward is?' wondered Corinne.

Even Corinne held strong hostility toward Maxwell, let alone Emily whom he hurt deeply.

"He dared to show up in front of my mom again? Missus Addison, don't worry. This won't happen a second time," reassured Corinne.

Once Joey was discharged and things settled down for Corinne, she would warn Maxwell not to disturb Emily anymore.

Melinda let out a sigh. "Corinne, do you really believe that your mom's heartache will magically disappear as long as your dad stays away from her? Your mom has been wandering for so many years, and she's never been truly happy. One reason is the guilt she carries for losing you, believing that her failure to protect you led to your death. The other reason is the emotional scars from her past marriage. Yes, she hates Maxwell, but how can such deep hatred exist without a foundation of love? When your mom just escaped from the Riveras, she was barely thirty. With her looks and brain, she attracted admirers everywhere, but she never entertained any of them. Why do you think that is?"

before answering, "Because she was hurt so deeply that

the main reason is that she's never truly forgotten Maxwell. No one can ever live up to him in her mind. That's why she won't entertain anyone's advances

Addison, are you saying that my mom...still loves

think. Otherwise, she wouldn't have reacted so intensely when your dad showed up. Regardless of the events from all those years ago, almost two decades have passed. Most people would have

Ding!

doors opened, and Melinda

thoughtfully. "Missus Addison, how do you think we can

your mom can calmly face your dad without becoming overwhelmed by strong emotions. Otherwise, even if you keep your dad away from your mom, she won't truly get better. She'll just be hiding her pain and pretending she's forgotten about the past,"

eyes darkened in understanding. "But I feel like Maxwell isn't