Chapter 27 An Underlying Threat

• Isabelle paced across the room, her gaze flitting from the intricate mosaic tiles on the floor to the grand oil painting of her ancestors that dominated one wall. The ornate gold frame seemed to mock her with its history of wealth and privilege, a privilege she felt was slipping through her fingers.
• "He hired a new maid, Mom." Isabelle finally blurted out, the words tumbling out of her like a cascade of rocks. "An annoying, fussy little thing who keeps humming while she cleans, and her feather duster is always in my face!"
• Gina scoffed, her lips turning into a thin line. "Isabelle, you know Liam has a penchant for order. And he"'s a busy man."