It’s almost midnight by the time we get Mia home and in bed. The day has flown by in a flurry of hospital gowns and panic. I tuck Mia in her crib and she falls asleep almost instantly. The doctor said the anti-histamine they gave her would make her sleepy. I just didn’t expect it to bethatfast. I’
“Laura,” I say immediately, shaking my head. “It had to be her. She was the only one who had access to everything.” “Her,” Archer says. “Andyou.” “Seriously, Archer?” I sneer. “You’re still trying to put the blame one me? Even after all of this evidence?” “What evidence?” Archer snaps. He thro
The next time I see the Hayes is Thursday at Nanny training. They’d been scarce on Wednesday and had let me and Mia have time to ourselves. I don’t know if it was out embarrassment or distaste but I was happy to be alone regardless. I’m waiting for them in Mia’s room for Nanny training that evenin
The remainder of the week goes by slowly and, somehow, without conflict. I haven’t seen Archer much since Nanny school on Thursday. He’s been hiding out in his room or bolting through the Pyramid to class. Neil and Steven have been home the most. I’m strangely starting to enjoy their company. Stev
“Oh,” I say quietly. “Okay.” Archer brushes against me as he leaves his room. He shuts the door behind his back and then walks down the hall to mine and Mia’s room. He tentatively opens the door and I mentally prepare myself for the worst. Pile of dirty diapers. Leash for the collar. Full on
The afternoon on the day of the Homecoming dance, I’m rudely awakened from my nap by banging on my door. Mia had also been napping. She stirs in her bed before opening her mouth and letting out a retched cry. I sweep her into my arms and stagger over to the door. I wrench it open and see a man in fr
I don’t dare ask who Tiffany is and why we have her barrette. I look back at Athena with big eyes. “Thank you,” I say. “I look amazing.” “Well let’s get you ladies dressed,” Gabriel stands, Mia in his arms. “And complete this transformation.” I shimmy into the dress. Athena helps me zip it thi
Archer drags me behind the stage of the auditorium. His grip is strong and bruising on my bicep. He guides me into a chair next to a bunch of other seated people. “Stay here,” he barks. Despite the alpha way he says it, I roll my eyes. He narrows his own at me before darting off. Mia stirs in my l