Page 176 of As You Wish

I sighed as I read the final words. I’d walked into the trap she hadn’t wanted for me. The girls were also not where Alice wanted them. As much as I knew this was my best option, especially considering the state of my apartment back in San Francisco, it didn’t feel like what was planned for them.

It felt like I was failing Mom, and it felt like I was failing Alice’s wishes.

Worst of all, I didn’t know if I would be able to leave this time. I didn’t know if I’d be able to do what Mom and Alice wanted. Because despite everything that I thought was true, I enjoyed my time here far too much.

I used to consider myself my mother’s child. Now, I didn’t know who I was at all.

JADE

Strawberry Springs Neighborhood Watch

Jackie Anne: Call Cain.

Comments:

Mollie Wilson: You posted this on Facebook and never called him. He’s worried you’re mad. Might want to try again.

Jackie Anne: Dang it!!! Ever since they updated Facebook, I don’t understand this app!

Jackie Anne: Call Cain.

Hu Gh: Let me give you a tip. It’s the little green button.

Marjorie Brown: Call Hen.

Mollie Wilson: The chicken or the person?

Kerry Winsor: Obviously she means her wife!!!

Marjorie Brown: I meant the chicken. I have someone for her to peck.

I was having far too much fun with Gabriel and the girls at dinner when I got a message from Marjorie.

Marjorie

I’m not gonna mention what’s going on, but I need to talk to you. Meet me at the library.

This was one of those rare times where she was being serious, and I knew she had information that I needed. Agnes and Beatrice seemed to love having me around, so excusing myself was a little difficult. But I ran to the library and met Marjorie out front.

“Hey, sorry it took me a minute to get away.”

“You better know I love you. I am so curious about the rumors going around town.”

“They’re not that interesting.”

“I know that you’re a good liar too.”

“Right. But it’s not only for my benefit. There are kids involved.”

Marjorie paused, then nodded. “Ah. Fair enough. I’ll just pretend that I have no idea that you’re lying then.”

I smiled at her. “Thank you very much.”

“Anyway, all these questions aren’t why I brought you out. I decided to talk to the mayor.”

“Oh my God, you’re brave. He was back in town again?”