Chapter 26

Just as Sophia let out a pained cry, the door was shoved open from the outside. Alexander stormed in, totally ignoring Eira, brushing past her like she wasn't even there. He went straight to Sophia, gently helping her up off the floor. His brows tightened, worry all over his face. "What happened? How'd you fall?" Though he was asking that question, the instant he got her up, his eyes darted over to Eira, sharp as blades, full of blame and rage. Sophia, with tears still streaked down her cheeks, reached out and clutched the corner of his coat with trembling fingers. "I-I think... I wasn't watching where I was going. It's my fault. I fell." She hesitated, then added softly, "Miss Johnson was trying to help me... maybe she just didn't catch me in time." Her eyes nervously peeked at Eira from behind Alexander, like a frightened little bird seeking shelter. If Eira hadn't watched the whole thing unfold, she might've nearly bought into Sophia's act too-it was that convincing. Massaging the e