CHAPTER 13: The Apology No One Can Buy

Adelaide finally approached Maren when she realized the room no longer belonged to her.
Her voice was low, meant to sound wounded instead of cornered.
'I apologize if the child felt embarrassed.'
Maren almost laughed, but Clara was beside her, listening, learning which apologies counted.
'No,' Maren said. 'Try again without blaming a seven-year-old for feeling pain.'
Adelaide's eyes hardened.
For a second, the old woman returned: the one who controlled seating charts, holidays, servants, sons, and every room she entered by making love conditional.
But this room had cameras, contracts, and Victor Ashford standing under his own chandeliers with his granddaughter at his side.
'I am sorry,' Adelaide said, each word pulled from her pride like glass. 'I was cruel.'
Clara looked at her dress, then at Maren.
'Do I have to forgive her?'
Maren brushed a damp strand of hair from her daughter's cheek.
'No. Forgiveness is not a rule other people get to use when they are tired of consequences.'
Adelaide heard that too.