Chapter 30

SHE opened the door, and the image that greeted her made her breath hitch.

The woman standing on the porch was young. Much younger than her. Her dress clung tightly to her body, short enough to expose smooth, confident legs, the neckline plunging low as though daring anyone to look away. Her heels were impossibly high, her posture practiced. Heavy makeup sat boldly on her face— thick artificial lashes, glossy lips, sharply contoured cheeks, all giving her a polished, nightlife glow even in the quiet afternoon light.

For a split second, Amelia simply stared.

“Yes?” she finally managed, her voice steady despite the sudden chill creeping up her spine. “What can I do for you?”

The girl looked her up and down, amusement dancing in her eyes. Then she laughed, a light, careless and mocking laugh.

Amelia's eyes widened in response to that.

“Excuse you?” the girl said. “This is my man’s house. I want to get in.”

The words hit Amelia like a sl