Chapter 10: Determined (3)
Alessandra closed the door as Penelope hurried up to her room. She thought the sneaking-out days were behind her children.
Alessandra was happy Penelope had made it home safe and sound, but she knew Edgar wouldn’t share the same sentiments.
Alessandra left the front door and joined Edgar in their bedroom.
"You look like you saw a ghost, or is it some stray you found and brought inside again? No more," Edgar said, against any more pets.
The stray animals and the people Alessandra welcomed into their home were already too much.
"It is not that. Promise me that you won’t get angry with what I say next, and you will remain here, leaving it for the morning," Alessandra said as she approached the table Edgar sat behind.
"I will make no such promise," Edgar replied honestly.
If there is trouble, it should be dealt with right away.
"Then I am not telling you now," Alessandra answered, changing course for the bed.
"Alessandra," Edgar called out to her but got no response. "I promise."
"Penelope just came home, and she was dressed as a boy. This time, she was alone. You promised you would not go to her," Alessandra said, heading for the door to beat Edgar to it. "She is safe, so your scolding can wait for the morning."