Lies

"Her name is Mrs. Joy," Viktoria informed Anika, looking at her with pride as she showed off her stuffed giraffe. It was Friday morning, and she had finally found a way to meet with Adeline Wagner on her own terms. The woman had contacted Anika, just as Viktoria had planned in the beginning. Sonya and Peter had kept their promises, and although her new friend had initially been unsure of her motives, seeing the little girl and her obvious resemblance to Anika and Klaus had convinced her to go along with it.

The meeting was taking place at the boutique, with both women using it as an excuse to distract themselves. Sonya had arranged for them to have a private room and would occasionally bring samples of clothing for the little girl, which was just an excuse to keep an eye on Anika. Adeline, on the other hand, seemed willing to do anything to prevent Anika from giving her daughter a gift.

"She's very pretty," Anika said, smiling at the little girl. She truly adored the way Adeline took