Chapter 69

"It's fine. Just a little won't hurt," Penelope said, barely able to keep her composure as she grabbed a bag of cookies. They were Xavier's absolute favorite cookies, shaped like all kinds of animals. She had splurged on them at an upscale import store, practically wincing when she handed over the money. She didn't even treat herself this generously, but none of it seemed to matter to Xavier. "Just a little, okay?" she said, holding the bag out to him and even showing off the blister on her hand she had received from cooking. "Thank you, Aunt Penny, but I…" Xavier hesitated. He really wanted to eat them, but Sebastian had told him that Julia would return soon. He was scared that she would leave again if he misbehaved. Young as he was, he didn't notice the blister on her hand at all. Afraid of being tempted, he quickly shook his head and ran upstairs. "I have homework to do!" Penelope was frozen in place, staring at the untouched snacks and steaming fried chicken. It all felt l