Page 97 of Sinful Palace

Five minutes later, we were halfway down the main hall in the eastern wing of Wonderland’s top floor. When we turned into a smaller hall on our left, we ran into my parents heading in the opposite direction.

My father narrowed his eyes and stalked past us with a grunt that vaguely sounded like ‘morning’. Mom stopped and shook her head as she watched him go.

“What’s his problem?” I asked, lifting my brows.

She waved a hand. “I don’t know. He’s been in a foul mood all morning,” she said. She turned her attention to Willow. “It’s good to see you out of your room, darling. How are you feeling?”

Willow shrugged. “I’ve had better days.”

Mom gently stroked her forearm, offering her a sad smile. “I understand. It’s so hard when you lose family members,” she said. She drew back and held up a palm. “I know I’ve already said this a hundred times, but if there’s anything I can do, just let me know.”

“Thank you.”

Mom looked at me again. “Where are you two headed in such a hurry, anyway? You were practically jogging.”

“We were going to see Chloe.”

Her face brightened. “Oh, that’s so sweet of you. I’ve actually just come from seeing her myself.”

“How is she today?”

She sighed and looked at the floor. “About the same as usual. She was asleep for most of my visit,” she said. She looked up again, pasting on a brave smile. “But she’s awake now, and I’m sure she’d love to see you.”

“Good. I haven’t had much of a chance to visit her over the last few days.”

Mom patted my shoulder. “It’s not your fault. You’ve been helping Willow.” She turned her head to flash Willow another sympathetic smile.

I glanced at Willow too, and I noticed her eyes were slightly narrowed. I followed her gaze and realized she was focusing on a dark purple bruise on the left side of Mom’s neck.

“What happened there?” I asked, dipping my head toward the ugly mark.

Mom let out a girlish laugh and rubbed her throat. “Oh, you won’t believe this. It’s so ridiculous. Remember that amethyst necklace your uncle got me for my birthday?”

“Vaguely.”

“I decided to wear it to dinner last night, and the stones were so heavy that I ended up with this damn bruise,” she said. “I couldn’t believe it when I woke up and saw it. It’s huge.”

I raised an eyebrow. “I guess you won’t be wearing it again.”

“Definitely not. It’s a shame, because it’s such a beautiful piece. Maybe I should donate it to someone who can fully appreciate it,” she said. She scratched her chin and frowned. “Actually, I could put together a fundraising auction for Jeremy Carlton’s campaign and donate it to that, couldn’t I?”

“Yeah, that sounds good,” I said. “By the way, sorry I haven’t been to any of those meetings with you this week. I’ll try to make it to the next one.”

She waved a casual hand. “Oh, don’t worry, there’s no rush. I’m just glad you’re interested in this stuff again. It’s just like the old days!” she said, beaming. “Anyway, take as much time as you need for Willow. I’m sure she appreciates you being here for her during such a difficult time.” She looked at Willow again. “Right, darling?”

Willow nodded. “Yes, I do.”

“Good. Anyway, sorry to rush off, but I really have to go. I have a hair appointment in the city, and I’m already late.”

“All right. Have fun.”

She blew a brief air kiss at me. “I will.” Before she left, she leaned forward and gave Willow a brief hug. “Remember, anything you need, just let me know,” she said.

“Thank you. Maybe I’ll get you to bring me some more of that herbal tea,” Willow replied with a faint smile.

“Great idea. See you both later!”

When Mom was gone, Willow rounded on me with her hands on her hips, eyes flashing. “Please tell me you didn’t actually believe that story,” she said.

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