Ann lowered her eyes.
She understood what Melinda was trying to say.
Melinda had threatened Phillip that she would commit suicide if he wouldn't let go of Ann. Still, for him, it was impossible to give up on Ann.
He took his mother's advice and left for another country. But he didn't change his color, and he was capable of doing things that would make his mom even more furious.
Melinda saw through his son, so she decided to step back.
And she promised they could stay in touch with each other as friends.
Ann gave out a light smile and withdrew her hands from Melinda.
She spoke in a tender voice, "I don't think you keep worrying about us. I know we should keep in touch as friends, but it is just out of expediency, nothing extra involved. I will keep a distance from him, for sure.
It is good for Nikki as well. Or I should say just because of her, I won't allow myself have anything to do with Phillip outside of our friendship. I hope you can have some faith in me this time."