Deeply devastated

Amber

The day dawned gray, reflecting exactly how I felt inside. The news about Kris and my father's note echoed in my mind like an endless nightmare. I couldn't find the strength to get out of bed, much less to meet my friends. My life, once perfect and immaculate, was crumbling before my eyes.

I couldn't sleep at all the night before, tossing and turning in bed, wracked with guilt. As the sun began to illuminate the room, a feeling of hopelessness came over me. The guilt of having handed my mother into the hands of a man as monstrous as my father was consuming me.

Still lying down, I picked up my cell phone and dialed the number of the mansion in Denver. My intention was to talk to my mother, but I knew I needed to be subtle. The maid answered on the third ring.

"Hello, Morton Manor," said the maid, her voice soft and subservient.

"Pass it to my brother, now," I ordered without even greeting her. I wasn't in the mood for formalities or pleasantries.

"Yes, Miss Amber, one moment