Chapter 117

Hearing that it was her daughter calling, Victoria let out a small sigh of relief.

For a moment, she'd thought McNeil was up to some new mischief again.

"Mummy, tomorrow's my birthday. Will you come?"

Gwyneth's voice was plaintive and hopeful.

Victoria paused, realizing it had been nearly five days since she last heard from Gwyneth-the longest stretch since she'd promised her that new video game.

She must have grown tired of asking. Every time, Victoria told her, "Wait until your birthday."

Now, at last, the day had come.

"Yes, I'll bring your game over tomorrow," Victoria replied.

Gwyneth squealed with delight on the other end, but as soon as the words left her mouth, Victoria regretted it.

Gwyneth was almost certainly staying at Winding Peak Lane with Violet. Bringing her birthday present meant Victoria would have to go there too.

And that house-Violet's house-was the one place Victoria dreaded most.

home for six years, their private

were signed and she told herself she no longer cared,

someone had spat into her favorite dish. No matter how many times

the best,

her joy

some fruit. Come have some. Gwyn, I made your favorite cupcakes too—but don't eat too many sweets

Violet's voice drifted

to a whisper. Victoria guessed

I have

yawn, trying her best to

emotionless. "Alright.

didn't ask

exactly what was happening-Gwyneth was eager to get to

being jolted awake by

gratefully under

in, the one her mother had lovingly

arms. For the first time in a while, Victoria's mind was blissfully free

fell asleep the moment

***

morning, Victoria woke to find a text from Gwyneth waiting on her phone.

slept all night. The moment dawn

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