I Was His Wife, Then His Widow, Then No One's But My Own novel Chapter 39

Seraphina's voice was honey-sweet as she comforted her. "It's okay. I'll just come pick you up anyway."

Cassie shook her head furiously, looking dead serious. "Mom won't let you. She'll yell at you!"

Seraphina chuckled. "Then I'll have your dad come get you. Your mom won't say a word to him."

Cassie's eyes lit up instantly. "Really?"

"Really," Seraphina promised. "Go pack your things and wait at the house. Your dad is already on his way."

"Yay! You're the best, Seraphina!" Cassie cheered.

She ended the call and bolted toward the stairs. As she approached the top, she deliberately slowed down, creeping forward as stealthily as a kitten.

Passing the study, she pressed her ear toward the door. Hearing absolute silence, she breathed a sigh of relief and darted into her room, shutting the door tightly behind her.

Throwing open her closet, she began stuffing clothes into her little backpack.

She packed her favorite pretty dress—the one Seraphina had bought her. Seraphina's birthday was in two days, and she was going to celebrate with her and Finnegan.

Digging deeper, she grabbed a small jacket, worried it might get chilly by the beach at night.

All packed up, she strapped the backpack on, cracked her door open, and peeked out into the hallway.

The study door was still firmly shut. She tiptoed out, gripping the banister as she sneaked downstairs.

The moment she reached the landing, the study door clicked open.

Nora stepped out, staring down at her.

Clutching her backpack, Cassie froze on the stairs. She blinked nervously. "Mom..."

"Where are you going?" Nora asked coldly.

Cassie puffed out her chest, trying to look brave. "Uncle Frederick is taking me out to play! You can't stop me!"

Glancing over her shoulder, she saw Nora standing on the staircase, watching them.

Cassie clamped her mouth shut, quickly pulling back from the hug and merely holding his hand instead.

Witnessing the display, Nora felt a familiar coldness settle in her chest.

She hadn't missed that split-second hesitation. Her five-year-old daughter had already mastered the art of filtering her words, learning exactly how to lie and manipulate in front of her own mother.

She wasn't born this way. Someone had coached her. But ultimately, Cassie was a willing student.

A brief wave of bitterness washed over Nora, but it vanished just as quickly.

Tugging on Finnegan's hand, Cassie checked to ensure Nora hadn't followed them outside. Then she stood on her tiptoes, whispering frantically into his ear.

"Dad, you have to tell Mom I'm staying with you guys for a few days. You promised we're going camping for Seraphina's birthday! If Mom finds out, she'll ruin it."