Twenty Three

IVORY

I backed up away from her. "What...how did you...what are you doing here?" I sputtered, my voice breaking in tirade of emotions.

I watched her discard the hat and sunglasses, holding them firmly.

"Ivory. It is Aunt Purity," she introduced.

Purity not Rebecca, Mother's twin sister. They were so identical that you could confuse one for the other.

But what was she doing here? Does Mother not visit here at all?

I stood up defiantly, dusting my gown and hands.

"What are you doing here?" I asked coldly.

"Umm...I will be waiting in the car. Come meet me when you are ready," Jide interjected and excused us.

I nodded and gulped, rubbing my sweating palm on my gown. I was very nervous and I did not understand why. I should be furious instead of nervous.

"I visit Rowland often in the place of Rebecca," she informed me, dropping the bouquet of flowers on the grave stone.

It was then I realized the numerous flowers on the grave stone, most were withered but the rest were still fresh