Good. Smart woman.
Sophie nods. “Not to party. To be seen.”
“That sounds awful.”
“It will be.”
“Sophie,” I say.
She turns on me. “You know I’m right.”
“I know she just slept in a jailhouse after her husband showed up at the gate.”
“I also know her husband sent a message this morning proving he can still reach her. If Amelia disappears into yourhouse now, Jeremy gets to say whatever he wants. If people see her with you, calm, unafraid, and not trying to leave, his story weakens.”
Amelia swallows. “I am afraid.”
Sophie’s expression softens. “I know. You don’t have to be fearless. You only have to be visible.”
The room goes quiet.
I hate that.
I hate how true it sounds.
Amelia looks toward the bedroom where August is making Blue Rex stomp over my quilt. “What about him?”
“He stays here,” I say immediately.
Her eyes snap to mine.
“With Sophie,” I add before she can light me on fire. “Or whoever you choose. Not with a prospect. Here. Safe. You don’t take him to the Fire Pit today.”
Sophie nods. “Agreed. August doesn’t need to be part of the performance.”
Amelia breathes out.
Good.
At least we all have that much sense.
She rubs her hands over her arms. “I don’t have anything to wear.”
“You have clothes,” I say.
She gives me a look. “Clothes are not the same as armor.”
That shuts me up.
Sophie smiles softly. “I can help with that.”
Amelia looks wary. “I’m not wearing something that makes me look like I’m trying too hard.”
“Good. We want you to look like yourself.”
“I don’t know what that is right now.”
The honesty sits in the hall.