Door to stop 29

 

Janet’s Point of View 

I stood there watching as they wheeled Mrs. Henderson out to the ambulance. Her words kept playing in my mind: “Your mother used to say the same things.” Who was she talking about? My birth mother who had been bedridden for so long? Or my birth parents? 

Jasper had mentioned earlier when we first met that they traveled and would return soon, but I had never met them. I didn’t know what kind of people they were. The uncertainty made me uncomfortable and tied my stomach in knots. 

I tried to calm myself. The woman wasn’t in her right state of mind. She must have been hallucinating. That had to be it. 

“Janet, dear!” 

I turned to see Grandma calling me over. She was beaming with pride. 

“Come here, my wonderful girl,” Grandma said, pulling me into another hug. “I am so proud of how you handled that situation. You were amazing!” 

“Thank you, Grandma,” I said, trying to smile. “I just did what anyone would do.” 

“No, no,” Grandma shook her head. “Not anyone could have done that. You were so calm, so professional. You helped that poor woman when everyone else was just standing around.” 

“I’m glad I could help,” I replied quietly. 

“You have such a gift, Janet. Such intelligence and grace.” Grandma held my hands. “I’m so lucky to have you as my granddaughter-in-law.” 

The word made my chest tighten with guilt. 

“You know what?” Grandma said suddenly. “You should stay the weekend! We can spend more time together. It’s been so long since we’ve had a proper visit.” 

My heart sank. “Oh, Grandma, that’s very kind, but I have work on Monday. I should really get back home tonight.” 

“Work?” Grandma waved her hand. “Rowan can speak to them. I can talk to your boss myself if needed. You’re staying, and that’s final.” 

“Really, Grandma, I appreciate it, but-” 

“No buts,” Grandma said firmly. “I insist.” 

I knew Grandma well enough to know she wasn’t the type to take no for an answer. But before I could try again, Rowan appeared beside us. 

“What’s this about?” he asked. 

“I’m telling Janet she should stay the weekend,” Grandma said. “But she’s being stubborn about work.” 

“It’s the weekend,” Rowan said, looking at me. “Janet will stay.” 

I stared at him in shock. How could he agree to this? He knew I only came here so he would sign the divorce papers and let me be free. But he wasn’t making this any less stressful for me. 

My phone started ringing in my purse. It had been going off for the past few minutes. 

“Excuse me,” I said. “I need to take this call.” 

1/2 

I walked away from them and saw Jasper’s name on the screen. 

“Hello?” I answered. 

“Janet! Where are you? Are you ready? I can send someone to pick you up.” 

I felt bad lying to him. “The event isn’t over yet. I don’t think I’ll be coming back today.” 

“What do you mean?” Jasper’s voice was concerned. 

“I’ll probably crash in a hotel nearby. Don’t worry about me.” 

“Janet, are you sure you’re okay? I saw the video.” 

“What video?” I asked, confused. 

“The one of you helping that woman. It’s all over the internet. It’s viral.” Jasper’s voice was full of pride. “You did amazing, sis. Everyone’s talking about how professional and caring you were.” 

I was overwhelmed. How did the news spread so fast? What would have happened if I hadn’t handled the situation well? 

“I’m proud of you,” Jasper continued. “But I’m also worried. Are you sure you don’t want me to send someone?” 

“I’m fine, really. I’ll see you soon.” 

“Okay, but call me if you need anything. I mean it.” 

“I will. Thank you, Jasper.” 

After hanging up, I went back to the party. Just like Rowan expected, I played my role as the supportive wife, smiling like our marriage was perfect. Grandma was happily talking about the progress our marriage had made and how proud she was of us both. 

Soon the party was over, and everyone was gone. I was exhausted and just wanted to sleep. 

“Janet, dear,” Grandma said as the last guests left, “your room is upstairs. Same one you and Rowan always use.” 

My blood went cold. “Actually, Grandma, I think I’ll sleep in one of the guest rooms.” 

Grandma looked shocked. “A guest room? Why would you do that?” 

“I just thought—” 

“Is this how you two sleep at home? In separate rooms?” Grandma asked, her voice disappointed. “No wonder I don’t have any great-grandchildren yet.” 

Rowan stepped forward. “Grandma, you should go get some rest. I’ll handle Janet.” 

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