bove the door jingled constantly. I was helping Mom behind t

nd a different kind of c

a little heavier, but with

de him,

mfortable on her. Her hair was perfectly styled, her makeup immaculate. But her eyes... her e

xquisitely dressed but wi

that smooth voice I now desp

nd clutching mine bri

id, her voice polite but c

tared past me, at a display of Mom

nced, as if it were the most natural

ran cold.

rd continued, a proud puff to his chest. "The best tutor

a tiny, almost imp

tone shifting to disappointment. "Victoria feels... perhaps she

l looking for an heir. A proper heir.

se years. After they thou

r eyes were filled with a desperate,

a said, her voice a harsh whis

h years of unspoken resentment and w

resolute. I looked at the bakery, our s

e peace I' d fo

ever

ce quiet but firm. "

rah. This is an incredible opportuni

eeting his gaze. "I have a

d, a brittle, ugly sound. "With nothing? You don't k

wasn't just trying to recruit me for Victoria.

no," I said. "