A Sparkling Invitation

CHARLOTTE

I stepped out of the bathroom, feeling a lot better than I had in the last few days. Sonia had shown me around and exited the apartment to give me some time to myself, and I was grateful for the silence. I wasn’t necessarily comfortable, but taking a bath had helped to calm me. I still felt very confused about the entire ordeal, but I was certain I’d be more receptive to whatever information Thiago had to give.

I walked to the bed and found a clothes bag lying on it, a note pinned to a black box placed beside it. “What’s this?” I said, picking up the box.

I brought it close to my ear and shook it; the box made a faint rattling sound, which piqued my curiosity. I moved it in front of me and read the note:

I’d be ready to answer your questions at dinner. Take all the time you need. Call Sonia when you’re ready.

I looked around for a signature or anything to indicate who had signed the note or left the present, then chided myself for being ridiculous. There was only one person