I quickly read over the paper that had accompanied the letter. It was in Polly’s handwriting and most certainly a blackmail attempt. I pinned my mother with a merciless stare. “Is this what you meant when you said you got in touch with some old friends on your last journey home? You and Polly are back to blackmailing people? Why? Tennie and I provide for all your needs and even your selfish whims. How could you do this? Is this your idea of fun? Polly, get down here,” I commanded, raising my voice so it would carry through the floors above to a sister who could not mistake its gravity.
Before Annie could form a response, Tennie collapsed into a chair, tears falling thickly. “What have you done? Never, never will I ever go back to that life.” She scrubbed at her cheeks, halting suddenly an
