Angela shook her head, shocked. "We moved shortly after her death," Angela said slowly, "to Europe." Angela shook her head, not knowing how to respond. "God, I just-" she shook her head again, "I- I don't..." Angela sighed heavily and threw her hands up in defeat and frustration. She crossed her arms over her chest and stalked across the room to the window.

"It's a beautiful day," Angela said quietly, running her fingertips against the windowpane.

"Yeah, it is," Jack breathed, coming up behind Angela. She didn't respond but continued to stare vacantly out the window. It was a wonderful fall day, with the sky an amazing blue. The leaves were just reaching their peak of color, in vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red.

"I love fall. Really. I do. It's my favorite time of year," Angela said numbly, her voice barely audible. She paused thoughtfully. "Have I ever told you that?" she asked, turning to Jack.

Jack smiled slightly. "Talk ta me," he said.

"I can't," Angela said softly.

"Why?"

"Because I don't know what to say."

Jack looked at her reproachfully. "Ta me? Ya don't know what to say ta me?"

"No, no, no. I-well, NO. That's not it at all. I'm just not-" Angela struggled for words.

"Ready?" Jack ventured.

"Yes. Exactly. Now...what are we going to do?" Jack raised his eyebrows at Angela. "Oh, fine," she muttered.

"Um, Danny," Angela said, turning, "thank you for your hospitality and for taking care of, uh, Clara, and everything."

"It was nothing, really. I want to apologize for Ryan; I feel so bad."

"No, no, it's all right. I would like to talk to you...about my mother. If you don't mind, of course."

Danny smiled, "You're welcome to stop by anytime, I'd be happy to talk to you."

"Thank you. And please, I'd like to invite you and Ryan to dinner tonight. It's just casual. 7 o'clock. The corner house, Number 26 on South 7th Avenue." Danny began to shake his head. "Please come," Angela said, her eyes imploring him.

Danny sighed. "Oh, all right," he mumbled, sheepishly.

Angela grinned. "Great. Now, we won't inconvenience you any longer. Thanks again," Angela said, grabbing Clara by the wrist and dragging her out the door. Once in the hall, Clara vigorously shook off Angela's grasp, as if it were utterly revolting. Angela glanced at her out of the corner of her eye but said nothing.

The trio walked back to Angela's house in a tense silence, Clara dragging her feet heavily.