Aurelia stifled a giggle. Despite Skyler was mere eight years of intellect, he was adult-like and his mind was a labyrinth of cunning and wit.
On deck, a sinister chill flickered through Raines' eyes.
Beverley and Sheryl divided the fish as instructed, then each began to count their share.
Raines lost to Fredric by a single fish and now faced his punishment.
He tightened his lips for a moment, covertly biting down on his molar. But it was only for an instant before he relaxed, offering a nonchalant smile.
"A bet's a bet!"
Fredric shrugged. "No biggie, Raines. It's all in good taste. You could down three bowls of hot lime juice."
Sheryl brought over the lime juice.
Raines accepted it. "It's been ages since I've had lime juice. Not sure if I can still handle the taste."
Leopold curled his lips slightly. "Relax, it's just how you like it. Your old nanny Paz made it especially for you."
He paused, then asked, "Remember Paz? You saw her five years ago when Chad passed. She often made you your favorite lime juice."
Raines shook his head. "Not really. You know my memory is terrible. If the servants hadn't picked me up from the airport, I probably couldn't have found my way back to the Stirling estate."
Leopold smiled thinly. "No worries. I've had Paz brought over. You two can catch up and she's missed you."
Fredric spoke up, "Leopold always thinks of everything. At the sight of Paz, Raines will recall his memory. In addition to Elfreda, he was closest to her."
Raines forced a smile. "I'd like to see Paz. Hopefully, I'll remember her."
He downed the lime juice in one gulp.
After finishing, he discreetly cleaned his mouth with a handkerchief, hiding any expression.
Aurelia then served him cilantro juice.
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