“Do you want me to help you with a dress? I’m sure I could modify it any way you would like.” I wrapped my fingers around the cup, soaking its warmth.
I had gone through the closets and found some dresses that could be perfect for Frid. But I would not tell her that, I was too worried about her reaction.
“I’d rather die,” the girl said and Victor pursed his lips.
“You can’t stay trapped in here,” he observed.
Victor was wearing a dark brown shirt and a pair of matching pants. It seemed like he did not miss his flying suit, unlike Frid who still wore her leathers.
“Of course I can. You have no idea how stubborn I am,” Frid hissed.
Suddenly, the front door opened and Grace walked into the house. I was always startled when she came, probably because she never knocked. It was her house, but it would be nice to have a warning.
She wore a light blue dress with layers of delicate lace on the bodice and neck. Smooth, snow white, nearly translucent stones decorated her neck and wrists.
“Good morning!” she said in a cheerful voice.
Before the door closed behind her, a wave of fresh, cool air from the valley reached me and I shivered.
“Good morning!” I looked up.
“Well, it seems your group is going to have another member soon.” Grace made herself comfortable on the low sofa beside Victor.
“What do you mean?” Frid asked.
“Gabrielle is here. Her father just passed, and she is coming to his funeral.” Grace looked at all of us.
“Damn,” Victor muttered and his gaze landed on me.
I frowned trying hard to place the name.
“This is getting interesting. And I’m going to miss all the fun.” Frid dropped into a chair.
“Is Tynan still in love with her?” Grace asked and I almost spilled my tea.
Gabrielle. She was Tynan’s fiance.
How could I have forgotten that? But, she’s married now. Isn’t she?
The swirl of emotions hit me all at once, and I was afraid that my face betrayed how I felt. I looked down, trying hard to conceal my feelings. I could not help noticing that no one responded to her question.
Did that mean he was still in love with her?
“Did she come with her husband?” Victor asked.
“I don’t think so. I haven’t seen him.” Grace settled deeper into the cushions, enjoying our reactions.
“Damn it,” Victor uttered again, his eyes returning to the album.
“Do you like what you see?” Grace gave him an encouraging smile.
“It’s . . . unusual.” Victor turned the page.
“Unusual? It is magnificent! Those works were made by the famous Luciano.” Grace peered at him.
“Never heard of him,” Victor muttered.
“You have never heard of the greatest artist of all time?” Grace started to lose her temper.
