Book Five: Chapter 62

Sofia sank into Murray’s couch with a dramatic sigh, stretching her legs across it until she took up almost the entire piece of furniture, making it look more like a loveseat than a full-sized couch. She leaned back and folded her arms, her expression a mixture of amusement and exasperation. “I’m afraid I can offer no help in that area,” she said, her voice casual but tinged with mock solemnity as she gave Eulalie a sidelong glance.

“That’s okay.” Eulalie’s grin was wide, showing all of her teeth as she leaned forward slightly, elbows on her knees. “Because I’m already the best there is,” she said confidently, her eyes sparkling with mischief. She shifted slightly, letting the weight of her confidence fill the space between them, as though daring Sofia to challenge her claim.

***

When Beth finally stepped into the house, the subtle shift in air pressure cause