Now, Flossie was stepping up, fully willing to shoulder the entire burden of taking care of Emeline just for her sake.
It proved that childhood friends who grew up together didn't just offer empty platitudes—they backed it up with real action and sacrifice.
Lamont, whom Flossie had mentioned, was Emeline's biological older brother, and he was also Flossie's boyfriend.
Sharon's voice was slightly hoarse. "But won't that put you in a tough spot? You and Lamont have already been fighting over this whole mess."
Flossie and Lamont had been vacationing abroad. While they hadn't rushed back the absolute second they heard the news, they had gotten into massive blowouts over Emeline.
Since Flossie firmly supported Sharon, she naturally didn't hold back from trashing Emeline in front of Lamont.
Even though Lamont knew that Emeline moving into York's house was completely inappropriate, she was still his blood sister.
With Flossie cursing her out and saying such harsh things, it was impossible for him not to feel somewhat defensive.
The two of them had engaged in several screaming matches while still overseas over the issue.
Sharon and Adele were well aware of this, as Flossie had been keeping them updated in their group chat over the last few days.
Flossie waved a hand dismissively. "If we fight, we fight. If it comes to it, we'll just break up. He's been getting on my nerves lately anyway—perfect time for an upgrade."
Sharon honestly didn't know what to say to that.
Adele, however, instantly slung an arm over Flossie's shoulders. "Hell yeah, Flossie. This is exactly why I adore you."
"Obviously," Flossie smirked. "Did you really think I'd be as pathetic as you two? One of you is a glutton for punishment, and the other is a total people-pleaser."
Flossie's tongue was as sharp and unfiltered as ever.
Sharon managed a bitter smile but didn't argue.
Seeing her look so defeated, Flossie immediately felt a pang of guilt. She smacked her own mouth and said, "Sorry, sorry. I'm just running my mouth."
Sharon felt bad seeing her hit herself and quickly reached out to stop her hand.
However, she was slightly confused by Flossie's assessment.
After all, Emeline's current situation... was undeniably a special case.
But if making this promise could give Sharon even a moment of relief and soothe her frazzled nerves, then... it was worth it.
Amidst the heavy, suffocating atmosphere, the military plane appeared in the sky right on schedule, causing the crowd's suppressed emotions to shift into a profound, suffocating grief.
Soon, the aircraft came to a smooth halt on the tarmac. Everyone instinctively lined up, watching in solemn silence.
The first to disembark was the Commander of Caleb's military sector, followed by a squad of uniformed soldiers carrying Caleb's casket.
The casket was draped in the national flag, an instant catalyst that brought tears to everyone's eyes.
Emeline was supported by a female soldier. She clutched a framed photograph of Caleb, a black mourning ribbon pinned to her chest. Dressed entirely in black, her face was deathly pale, and she looked exceptionally frail and haggard.
Sharon instantly felt a massive lump in her throat, her emotions tangling into an unbearable knot.
The Commander marched forward briskly, came to a halt, and delivered a crisp, solemn salute to Paula and Reuben.

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