Page 79 of Dirty Grovel

Sutton nods wholeheartedly. “It’s definitely nicer than anywhere I lived growing up. But I’ve never really wanted to live in a mansion.”

Oksana snorts. “Everyonewants to live in a mansion.”

“Maybe the people you know,” Sutton counters. “But as for me, I only ever wanted stable parents, three hot meals, and a roof over my head. It didn’t matter if that roof was made of stone and concrete or clay and straw. As long as it was safe and dry.”

“You don’t ask for much.”

“Being homeless and parentless can really put things in perspective,” Sutton continues, matching Oksana’s haughty tone. “You value things that are really important.”

Oksana bristles at the pointed jab. “Is that right?”

“The people who live in mansions are concerned with things that don’t really matter—appearances, money, power. But me? I just want to be happy.”

“Then perhaps you should find somewhere else to live.”

“Mother—” I start to say.

But before I can finish my reprimand, Sutton jumps right in.

“No, it’s okay,” she says. “I would love to find somewhere else to live. But your son has made it abundantly clear that I’m not to leave this house. Or Nassau. So here I am. Until he says otherwise.”

Oksana’s eyes jump to me, the question bright in her eyes. I have half a mind to tell her, right here and now.

But before I can decide how to proceed, Jesse appears carrying a heaping tray that smells like heaven.

“Leek and onion soup, Ms. Pavlova,” Jesse announces, her usual cheery vibe completely diluted by my mother’s radioactive aura.

“Ah, Jesse, you remembered that it’s my favorite.”

“Of course, ma’am.”

“And how is that boy of yours?”

“He turned six just last week. Your son was gracious enough to throw him a pirate-themed costume party.”

Oksana’s gaze oscillates towards me. “Is that so?”

“Teo was over the moon. It was a wonderful day.”

“I’m sure it was,” she says dismissively. “Can you have the pool boy take up my bags? I will need a long shower after this dinner.”

“Of course, ma’am,” Jesse answers, inclining her head. She gives me a nervous glance before continuing. “I’ll have your bags sent up to the Taupe Suite.”

Oksana is about to take a sip of her soup when she double takes. “Excuse me? Did you say the Taupe Suite?”

“That’s right, ma’am.”

“Is this some kind of joke, Jesse? I’m sure you remember that I always,alwaystake the Ivory Suite.”

Sutton’s eyes widen as she tenses, her fingers digging into the armrests of her chair. “That’ll be my fault again,” she chimes in. “I’m in the Ivory Suite.”

Oksana turns to her so slowly that the effect is downright sinister. “You’re staying inmysuite?”

“I wasn’t aware it was taken,” Sutton says, betraying not even the slightest bit of fear or regret.

It’s enough to make me want to burst into applause.

“Relax, Maman,” I sigh. “I’m the one who gave Sutton the Ivory Suite.”

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