Secrets (4)

Monique instantly attempted to walk back the damage with a deprecating laugh, sidling closer to her dearest friend and tugged on Harriet's arm in a pleading gesture.

"I know, I know it sounds crazy. Blame my mind for being overstimulated by all those ridiculous romance novels I read. I'm sorry."

She aimed an apologetic look towards Harriet, who remained pale and speechless in the wake of Monique's outrageous implication.

Viola arched one perfectly groomed brow as she regarded her friend skeptically.

"What made you come up with such a ridiculous plot line? We all know Mrs. Vanderbilt utterly adores Harriet. What kind of stepmother would treat her so genuinely if Harriet wasn't her legitimate daughter?"

Monique sighed, backpedaling hastily. "You're right, you're absolutely right. I'm sorry, okay? Please don't breathe a word of this idiocy to Uncle Reginald and Aunt Beatrice. I meant no ill thoughts towards them."