Page 69
“Well, honey,” I mutter to my reflection, “you look like ten miles of bad road.”
The woman in the mirror doesn't disagree.
I finish getting dressed and reach for my phone on the nightstand. The screen lights up with several unread messages from Alexei.
Did you sleep?
Eat breakfast.
Let me know when you leave.
I smile anyway.
I type back before I can overthink it.
I'm awake.
A few seconds later, I add:
And yes, I'll eat breakfast.
His reply appears so quickly, I roll my eyes.
Good.
I stare at the single word and shake my head. The man runs a billion-dollar company, commands an army of security personnel, and still finds time to monitor my breakfast habits.
Downstairs, the mansion is already awake. The morning sunlight paints golden rectangles across the marble floors while Agatha directs breakfast preparations. Winston is sprawled out beneath the kitchen island, and Daisy occupies a sun puddle near the back doors. Neither dog bothers lifting their head when I enter.
Rude.
Agatha glances up from the counter and smiles. “Mornin’, dear.”
“Mornin’.”
Her smile fades almost instantly as she examines my face. “You need rest.”
I laugh softly. “Sleep and I haven't exactly been on speakin’ terms lately.”
She gives me the same look Mama has perfected over the years. The one that says she knows I'm leaving out half the story. Thankfully, she doesn't push.
Ivy is already seated at the island with a bowl of cereal in front of her. She sneaks Winston tiny pieces of banana when she thinks Agatha isn't looking.
“I saw that,” Agatha says without turning around.
Ivy gasps. “You have eyes in the back of your head.”
“I most certainly do.”
I can't help laughing as I slide onto the stool beside her.
“Are you going to the shelter today?” Ivy asks.
“I am.” I reach over and smooth a strand of hair away from her face. “But I promise I'll be back just as soon as I can.”
She nods solemnly. “Okay. I'm talking to a doctor today.”
I quickly look her over for signs she's feeling sick. “Are you feelin’ alright, sugar?”
