Chapter eleven: Two S’s and a T

I didn’t move right away.

I just stood there. In that beautiful, tastefully-decorated living room that now felt like it had teeth.

The cushions still held the shape of where Sienna had curled up, coughing blood into her palm. The maid stood patiently by the hall, giving me space. She didn’t rush me. Just stood there with her hands folded in front of her, giving the impression that she’d seen worse things in this house and learned to wait them out.

When I finally moved, my legs felt heavy, as if I’d been dragging the entire day behind me.

“Ma’am?”

she said softly.

“Shall I take you to your room now?”

I nodded, not trusting myself to speak. If I opened my mouth right now, I’d either scream or sob. Possibly both.

We walked down the hallway, none of us saying a word.

The house stretched like a damn castle with wide halls, soft lights and walls that were too clean, too perfect. It was a place that made you feel like you didn’t belong, no matter how straight you stood.