Endearing Jealousy

Vance gently helped her into a chair, served a plate for her, and listened as she began.

"Ian's mother was a teacher to both Stella and me. She has late-stage cancer and doesn't have much time left. Ian asked if Stella and I could visit her occasionally, and I agreed." Her voice grew quieter toward the end, a hint of worry that he might be displeased.

"Your mom mentioned she and my mom were close