Chapter 14

Sophia felt sick to her stomach at the words, knowing that there was nothing lovely about their relationship. But she forced a smile, not wanting to let her stepmother see her true feelings.

Maria quickly quickly caught herself, "Oh, pardon my manners," she said. "Please come in, William."

William smiled graciously and stepped into the house, holding the door open for Sophia. She walked in behind him, feeling uneasy about having him in her childhood home.

The house was small and cozy, filled with knick-knacks and family photos. Sophia's stepmother led them into the living room, gesturing for them to take a seat on the couch.

William smiled thinly, his eyes scanning the room. He didn't seem entirely comfortable in the cozy little house.

"Can I get you anything to drink?" she asked, smiling warmly at William.

"No, thank you," he replied smoothly, settling onto the couch next to Sophia. "We won't be staying long."

Maria nodded, her eyes flickering over to Sophia. "Is everything okay, dea