An old servant of the St. John family, Mrs. Lowell, stayed by Madeline's side twenty-four hours a day as her caretaker.
Riley had also mentioned her intent to attempt treating Madeline, asking Winona to keep it a secret until she had tangible results.
About half an hour later, they arrived at the rehab center.
Riley followed Winona inside, signed the visitor register, and was then escorted by a staff member to Mrs. St. John's private suite.
The staff member stopped outside a door. "Mrs. St. John doesn't like strangers, so I'll leave you here."
"Thank you," Riley said.
The staff member departed.
Winona pushed the door open. Inside, Madeline was sitting on the sofa, fiddling with a drone, muttering to herself, "Why won't it fly? This is Sebastian's favorite plane."
Seeing Winona enter, Mrs. Lowell offered a warm smile. "Miss Winona, you're here."
Winona greeted her sweetly. "Mrs. Lowell." Then she introduced Riley. "This is my friend, Riley."
Riley greeted her politely. "Hello, Mrs. Lowell."
Mrs. Lowell smiled and nodded, taking the gifts from their hands. "You shouldn't have gone to such trouble. Please, have a seat. I'll go brew some tea for you." She then turned to Madeline, who was still intently examining the drone. "Madam, look who's come to see you?"
Madeline looked up, her gaze shifting from Winona to Riley. "Who are you?"
Winona cupped her face in her hands, tilting her head with a bright, sunny smile. "A beautiful little flower."
Mrs. Lowell smiled and retreated into the kitchenette.

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