Chapter 11
Her mother's voice carried from near the front doors, warm and gracious in a way that made Callie's stomach turn given what she had just overheard in the kitchen.
"Please, you simply must stay the night," her mother was saying to an older couple hesitating near the doorway. "The roads are far too dark this time of evening, and your estate is nearly two hours out. We have guest rooms ready, it would be no trouble at all."
The couple exchanged a look, then nodded gratefully, allowing themselves to be guided back inside by a waiting maid.
Callie watched a few more exchanges like it play out over the next several minutes, guests whose homes were too far for a safe night ride being ushered gently into prepared guest rooms instead, her mother the picture of gracious hospitality fo
