What Happened in the Children’s Lounge
Chapter 08 - What Happened in the Children’s Lounge
Oliver told the truth in pieces.
Adrian took him to a quiet room with Grace and a female hotel security officer present. Celeste was not allowed inside.
The children’s lounge had been decorated with games, movies, and desserts. Celeste told Oliver he could join the gala after the engagement announcement if he promised to smile for photographs.
Oliver asked when he would see Grace again.
Celeste became angry.
She told him Grace had left because children like Oliver exhausted people.
Then she showed him the packed blue suitcase waiting behind a chair.
“If you embarrass me tonight,” she said, “you leave tomorrow.”
Oliver tried to open the door.
Celeste’s assistant blocked him.
When the assistant stepped out to answer a call, Oliver pushed past her and ran.
Adrian listened without interrupting.
When the boy fell silent, Adrian asked, “Did anyone hurt you?”
Oliver shook his head.
“Did anyone threaten to hurt you?”
Another shake.
“They just said nobody would believe me.”
Adrian’s throat tightened.
“I believe you.”
Oliver looked at him carefully.
“Even if Celeste gets mad?”
May you like
“Especially then.”
Grace lowered her eyes, giving father and son the privacy of a truth finally spoken.
