Chapter 26

VERONICA "Go to sleep, baby." I gently kissed my son's forehead and tucked him in with the quilt. "Mommy will be leaving now, and I look forward to seeing you tomorrow morning." "Mom—" Zeon got me to sit back down next to him. "Yes, love?" A slight frown furrowed his otherwise flawless brow, his expression hardening. "Aunt Celine—" he began, causing my blood pressure to rise. "What did she do? Did she hurt you somehow?" I asked impatiently, frowning. He shook his head, "nothing— she's gone." he mumbled. "Papa sent her back to London, so— you can visit me more often." he whispered. "Oh!" I gasped in surprise; I hadn't anticipated that. He sent her back? I wonder why. Zeon nodded slowly. "Yes, Mom," he said. He pressed his lips tightly, as if hesitating, but then said shyly, "Actually— Papa didn't like her." My eyes fluttered rapidly as the information overwhelmed me. I bit my lip, gently stroking my son's head. "Perhaps we shouldn't discuss these adult matters," I softly suggested. "Let