Chapter 164: Like Tru

"WELL," DR. FRANKLER SAID when no one spoke up. "Perhaps you'll tell me after I've shared a little more about myself."

Ruthie sent me a nervous glance. I reminded myself that I trusted the woman in front of me. I didn't understand why yet, but I did. I sent Ruthie a calm smile.

Dr. Frankler sat in the last empty chair, next to the fireplace, her legs crossed. Again, I was struck by how much younger she seemed and looked her over again, trying to discover what had changed. I could have sworn that her hair had streaks of gray, but now it was a full, chestnut brown. Some strands had escaped her quick bun and they hung down her neck in spirals. She was also missing her black-framed glasses, but she seemed to see us clearly without squinting. Her open gaze moved perceptively from one person to the next, finally zeroing in on Wynona.

"Wynona," she said, her voice smooth as butter. When she continued, I noticed a slight push to her voice. "What brings you and Luke all the way across the co