Chapter 105

Cecilia Alpha Sebastian and I stood frozen, watching the fortune-telling charade unfold to its conclusion. I had to admire Harper's dedication to the performance—she was really milking this for all it was worth. "Such compassion! The Madam Amber is truly merciful with her boundless love! How benevolent!" Harper exclaimed with dramatic flair as Mrs. White gratefully accepted the red ruby necklace. Mrs. White showered them with effusive thanks as she carefully placed the beads around her wrist. Madam Amber offered one final piece of wisdom, "Remember, Mrs. White, faith is the key. True belief brings results." "Yes, yes, I understand completely," Mrs. White nodded repeatedly, clutching the red ruby necklace close. After paying an exorbitant offering fee, she finally departed, her expensive clothes now soiled with ash, looking utterly ridiculous but seemingly unaware of it in her desperate state. They'd arranged for her to return in a week for further assistance. I watched Mrs. White's ret