Chapter 34 : A Lack of Conviction

*Lily*

I went to bed yesterday with a fever and chills. My throat ached, and my eyes and head hurt. I felt much better this morning physically after sleeping over ten hours but emotionally was a different story. My coffee date with Eva and conversations with my mom and William depleted me. Not to mention the TV piece that depicted me as some loose party girl.

When I started to make coffee, my cell phone rang again. It had been running off the hook. On the counter was the new unopened phone William had couriered over. I hated to admit I might be forced to use it if the harassment didn’t stop.

It was my mom. “Hi, Mom.” I didn’t have it in me to listen to any more of her chastising, but I wanted to hear her voice.

“Lily, I got my painting from you and absolutely love it,” she said. “You know I love carousels, and this is so beautiful!”

My heart expanded for a moment as a slow smile swept my face. “Thanks, Mom. I’m so glad you like it. Happy birthday!”

“I miss you so much, dar