Vivienne had been in so much agony at the time she had nearly blacked out. If Bianca hadn't taken that bullet for her, her right arm would undoubtedly be in a splint too.
"I'm totally fine," Bianca grinned widely. "I guess I'm just lucky. No muscle damage, no broken bones. Dr. Cole just insisted on the splint so I wouldn't accidentally tear the stitches."
The two girls locked eyes and shared a warm, knowing smile.
Aurelia pulled up two more chairs. The three of them gathered around Vivienne's bed, chatting and laughing, while outside the window, the summer blossoms bloomed radiantly.
*
Meanwhile.
The Everhart Estate.
A traditional stage was set up in the middle of the main courtyard, where a storyteller in a long robe was delivering a dramatic, rapid-fire tale.
Graham lounged in a rocking chair with his legs crossed, eyes shut in relaxation. Whenever the story reached an exciting climax, his fingers would rhythmically tap his knee.
Preston came downstairs. His eyes lingered on Graham's face for a second before he turned to walk out of the hall.
"Where are you going?"
The moment Graham spoke, the storyteller on stage instantly fell silent.
Preston paused and glanced back over his shoulder. "Just going for a walk."
Graham waved a dismissive hand, and the performer immediately scrambled off the stage and out of the courtyard.
Seeing this, Preston hesitated for a moment before turning around and walking over.
Graham sat up and poured two cups of hot tea. "Do you have anything you want to tell me about last night?"
Preston shook his head. "No."
Graham gave him a pointed look and slid a teacup across the table. "You might not have anything to say, but I certainly have a question. What's the deal with that Cavanaugh girl?"

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