15

The silence in the Vargas mansion after Aaron's departure felt strange, as if the magnificent walls were holding their breath. Amelie stood silently in the middle of her now empty study, touching her forehead with fingers that were still slightly trembling. Aaron's kiss mark was still there, leaving a strange and confusing warmth amid the suspicion that had just raged. "Don't go out until I return," Amelie whispered, repeating Aaron's command. Her voice was soft but sounded uncertain. She stepped out, dragging her still slightly stiff legs towards the master bedroom. The first thing she did was check on Rossie. Behind the connecting door, her little daughter was fast asleep, looking very peaceful. Rossie's steady breathing and innocent face were the only anchors keeping Amelie sane. She gently stroked Rossie's cheek for a moment before returning to her own room. Amelie lay down on the oversized bed. The high ceiling seemed to weigh on her feelings. She stared at the dim night light, le