Chapter 20

Homecoming - Saturday, March 14 Afternoon through Sunday, March 15

In the late afternoon, Jessica came in the front door, her ponytail swinging as she dropped her bag. She looked every inch the college athlete—tight leggings hugging her toned legs, a cropped hoodie showing a strip of her flat stomach.

“Mom!” She crossed the room in two strides and wrapped me in a hug. Her body pressed against mine, and I felt that familiar heat building low in my belly. Her lips brushed my cheek in a quick kiss before she pulled back, her brow furrowing.

“You look ... different,” she said, tilting her head. “Your face, your skin—it’s glowing. And your chest ... did you get new bras or something?”

I laughed softly, guiding her toward the kitchen. “Come sit. Let’s talk.”

She slid onto a stool while I poured us both water. “Be specific, honey. What exactly are you noticing?”

Jessica’s cheeks colored. “Your boobs look bigger. And firmer. And your whole vibe is ... I don’t know, more intense. Like you’re radiating something.”

I took a breath. “I’ve been dealing with a hormone imbalance for a while. My doctor put me in a clinical trial. The medication is helping—more than helping. I haven’t felt this good, this alive, in twenty years.”

Her eyes widened, but she nodded slowly. “Is it safe?”

“So far, yes. And the side effects are ... manageable.” I smiled, keeping my tone light. “Now, tell me about school.”