The Bride’s Story
Chapter 03 - The Bride’s Story
Vanessa spoke before Lily could.
“She was frightened by Elena’s behavior.”
Dante turned toward her.
Vanessa descended the final step slowly, keeping the train of her wedding gown clear of the floor. “This woman has been undermining me for months,” Vanessa said. “She encourages Lily to disobey me. She keeps your late wife’s things hidden in the nursery. Today, she screamed when I tried to establish boundaries.”
Elena’s voice shook. “You threw the music box.”
Vanessa looked at her with contempt.
“It was broken.”
“It was her mother’s.”
Dante felt the room tighten.
Dante had not heard it in weeks.
He had assumed Lily was outgrowing it.
Now he understood someone had removed it.
“Where is the box?” he asked.
Vanessa’s expression did not change.
“In the trash.”
Lily made a wounded sound and hugged the teddy bear tighter.
Dante stared at Vanessa.
“You threw away the last thing her mother gave her?”
Vanessa’s patience cracked.
“I am going to be her mother.”
The chandelier light glittered across her diamonds.
Behind Elena’s protective arm, Lily whispered, “No.”
May you like
It was the smallest word in the room.
It carried the greatest weight.
