Silence hung heavy in the room. It was oppressive and thick. Carson wore a mask of shock and disbelief and his jaw was clenched. He didn't say anything.
His mothers last icy declaration of her authority lingered in the air. Victoria just grinned. Her lips curved thinly and knowingly but they stopped short of her eyes.
There was only the rustle of her silk dressing gown as she moved elegantly. She moved slowly and deliberately in Carson's direction. When she got to him she halted.
She was standing very near him. She raised her hand and gave his cheek a light pat. It felt smooth and cool to the touch like marble.
“You understand, don't you?” she said in a low quiet voice. “Every action I take and every action I have ever taken is for your benefit.”
Carson remained silent.
He simply
