Don waited a minute after Samantha's footsteps faded, then stepped out of his room and headed toward the living area.
The space was already occupied.
Miss Claire sat comfortably on the sofa, posture relaxed. She wore a fitted black jumpsuit, clean lines from shoulder to ankle, cinched at the waist with a deep green belt that matched the stones set into her jewelry.
A slim emerald necklace rested at her collarbone. A silver watch with green gemstones circled her wrist. Black aviators hid her eyes for now, giving her that unreadable look she favored.
Beside her, Samantha sat in the opposite corner of the couch in soft home clothes, hands folded loosely in her lap, smiling far too brightly for someone pretending not to be impressed.
Near the kitchen, Sylvia stood with Summer. Sylvia was still in her school uniform, blazer draped over a chair, tie loosened. Summer leaned against the counter in her usual homey attire, arms crossed as she listened.
