I dropped my suitcase. “Aurelia?” I whispered.
She stirred, eyes glassy. “Dad?” she croaked, trying to sit up.
“Why are you out here?” I asked. “Where’s your bed?”
She hesitated. “Because of Vionna.”
My stomach twisted.
“She said there were no beds left. She and Sarelle took the rooms. Said the couch was broken. This was the only option.”
I hugged her gently. “I’m so sorry, sweetheart. This isn’t right. I’ll fix it.”
She nodded, trusting me. That trust cut deeper than Vionna’s betrayal.
I checked the guest room. Bed untouched. Crib unmoved. Vionna had simply shut the door and lied.Continue reading…