Chapter 11

Present

The conversation between Alton, Suzanna, and Bryce stilled when we entered. I held my breath as my mother closed the door.

"Apparently you forgot to check your watch," Alton said. “Or is it an issue with telling time?”

"What is this—?"

"Five minutes, Alexandria. Five minutes. It seems a college degree has done little for your ability to follow simple instructions."

"I was told to play nice and be polite to the guests. That's what I was doing. You're not a guest and playing nice isn't in your repertoire."

My mother stepped forward. "Alton, we're here now. I realize this is my fault."

I narrowed my eyes trying to comprehend the conversation. Her fault?

"Yes, Laide, it is, and we’ll discuss that later."

My mother shifted as she looked from person to person. Both Suzanna and Bryce met her gaze, but in true Savannah style their expressions revealed nothing.

"Would someone tell me what's going on?"