Chapter 6
Jessica’s eyes brimmed with tears.
A message had popped up–it was from her old university animation mentor, Ines.
She could almost see Ines’s warm, gentle smile in her mind’s eye.
It had been seven years since they’d last met.
Jessica was just sixteen when she’d started posting her paper–cut animation shorts online. That’s when Ines stumbled upon her work by chance.
Even though Ines was already a star in the world of visual design, she never put on aifs. Instead, she sought Jessica out herself, told her that with her talent, she could recommend her for a scholarship to Riverside Media Institute, and offered to take her on as a student.}
So, at sixteen, Jessica found herself at Riverside.
Ines always believed Jessica was destined for greatness in animation. Determined to help, Ines even learned sign language just to better communicate with her, pouring heart and soul into nurturing Jessica’s unique gift–blending 3D animation with the traditional art of papercutting.
Jessica’s final project won the grand prize at the National Animation Creators‘ Competition. Suddenly, offers poured in from leading animation studios.
But at the very moment her mentor was counting on her most, Jessica walked away from it all. She chose tove, married Timothy, and settled into the role of the devoted wife.
Now, thinking back to their last meeting, Jessica could hardly believe she’d told fnes she was choosing love over career.
For seven years, she’d been too ashamed to reach out.
She typed a few hollow words onto the screen.
She
[I’m doing well.]}
Ines replied almost at once.
[That’s good to hear. I didn’t want to intrude, but…]
The typing bubble lingered. After a long pause, several messages arrived in quick succession.)
[Seven years is enough time for a home to find its balance. I have a wonderful opportunity for you, and I don’t want you to miss out again.]]
[Mr. Smith, an internationally renowned 3D animation director, saw your graduation project. He was so moved by your blend of 3D and traditional papercutting that he wants to invite you to join his team.]}
[I told him about your aphasia. He said the Aetherion studio has access to the most advanced neuroscience team, and he’d be happy to introduce you.]
Jessica, didn’t you always hope to speak again?]}
Jessica hadn’t even finished reading before tears blurred everything.
How could Ines know she only had half a year left to live?!
Six months wasn’t enough time–not to finish a major animation, not to work miracles with a voice lost for over a decade.
Her fingers hovered over the keyboard, deleting and rewriting, before she finally hit send.”
I’m sorry, Ines.]}
She watched the chat window. Ines was typing. And typing. But in the end, nothing else came.
.ate at night.
Timothy pulled the car up to the villa.
Sheila stepped out, cradling a sleeping Henry in her arms.
Timothy, would you ask someone to help with Henry? I won’t come in tonight.”
imothy frowned, concern flickering in his dark eyes. “You always have allergic reactions at hotels, and your luggage is still in my car. Stay here tonight–please.“? Sheila hesitated. “I know you’re worried, but… Jessica doesn’t know I’m your aunt. Women are sensitive, you know. It’s easy to get the wrong idea. Timothy, you’re not in your own anymore. You need to think about Jessica’s feelings–she is your wife, after all.“3
Vithout another word, Timothy wrapped an arm around her shoulder and led her toward the house, his voice cool and distant. “What happens in this house isn’t her lecision to make.“&
heila protested half–heartedly, but let herself be guided inside.
Mabel, the housekeeper, hurried to meet them. She stiffened at the sight of Timothy with his arm around Sheila.
ast night, Timothy had insisted Sheila stay over. His wife had stormed out and hadn’t returned all day, and now he was bringing Sheila back again…§
imothy looked around, not seeing Jessica, and his brow tightened. “She’s not back?”
Mabel shook her head.
Did you try calling her?”
I did, but her phone’s off.“2
