Emma packed her bags and headed to Columbus, crashing with Linda and Jack while she dove into nursing classes at Ohio State. She shone bright, acing her exams and impressing her professors with her quick thinking and compassion. Sarah beamed with pride during their phone calls, hearing about Emma’s late-night study sessions and volunteer shifts at the local clinic. But worry gnawed at her—city life came with parties, new friends, and distractions that Willow Creek never had.
One weekend, Sarah drove up for a surprise visit. The condo smelled like fresh coffee and Linda’s signature perfume. But when Emma hugged her, Sarah caught a whiff of something else—booze. Her stomach dropped like a stone.
«Emma, have you been drinking?» Sarah demanded, pulling back with a stern look.
«Mom, relax,» Emma said, rolling her eyes. «It was just a friend’s birthday bash. I had like one sip of hard seltzer. No big deal.»
«You’re only eighteen!» Sarah exploded, her voice echoing in the living room. «You can’t start this now, not like your dad. If I catch you again, I’ll drag you back to Willow Creek myself!»
«You can’t tell me what to do—I’m an adult!» Emma fired back, crossing her arms.
Sarah stormed into the kitchen, where Linda was chopping veggies for dinner. «What do I do? She’s turning into Tom!»
Linda set down the knife, her face calm. «Take it easy, Sarah. It’s just kid stuff—she’s testing boundaries. Give her space, and it’ll pass. Trust me, she’s smart. Focus on supporting her dreams, not freaking out over one party.»
Sarah sighed, nodding reluctantly. Linda’s words made sense, and for once, she felt grateful for her mother-in-law’s advice. Back in Willow Creek, things were changing too. Tom, inspired by the local pastor at Willow Creek Baptist, ditched the bottle cold turkey. He started showing up for family dinners sober, helping with chores without being asked, and even taking Sarah out for ice cream at the town’s old-fashioned parlor. It was like rediscovering the man she married, and Sarah’s heart softened.
But shadows lingered. Whispers reached Sarah that Emma was hanging with a rough crowd—late nights at campus bars, skipping classes for hangouts. It terrified her, but she remembered Linda’s words and held back, praying Emma would find her way.
Meanwhile, Linda thrived in her new life with Jack, hosting barbecues in their backyard and traveling to nearby spots like Hocking Hills for scenic hikes. Watching her, Sarah drew strength. She started small changes—joining a book club at the community library, trying free yoga classes on YouTube, and even dreaming of weekend getaways.
A year later, Emma graduated top of her class, landing a job at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. The family gathered for her ceremony at Ohio Stadium, cheers echoing under the bright lights. Sarah hugged her tight, tears of joy mixing with relief. Tom stood tall, sober and proud. Linda winked, whispering, «See? It all works out.»
As they drove home, Sarah gazed at the Ohio skyline, feeling a spark of hope. Maybe her own dreams weren’t over yet. In Willow Creek or beyond, happiness was waiting—if she reached for it.