I didn’t wake anyone. Aurelia needed rest more than I needed confrontation. But by dawn, I had a plan.
I drove to a motel, bought a cardboard box from the gift shop, and wrapped it in cheap blue ribbon.
“Sure did,” I said.
She clapped. “Let me see!”
I handed her the box. Inside were folded black trash bags.
“Packing material,” I said. “You and Sarelle have three days to move out.”
She blinked. “Excuse me?”
Aurelia appeared, hand on her belly. “Dad, you don’t have to—”
“I do,” I said.
Vionna stood. “You’re kicking us out? Over a mattress?”