I needed to move.
Standing at the window like a condemned man wouldn't improve my situation.
"Natalia. Outside. Now."
She looked at me, caught the tone, and stood without argument.
We hit the front door just as Kimiko reached the steps.
"Mom." I went in for the hug, playing it casual. "Hey."
She wrapped her arms around me, squeezing tighter than usual.
Then she did something completely unexpected.
She sniffed my neck.
Actually pressed her nose to my throat and inhaled.
I froze.
"You smell like perfume," she murmured against my collar. "Several different kinds, actually."
My brain short-circuited.
"Oh really?" I pulled back, forcing a laugh. "You can smell that?"
Kimiko's smile widened. "I'm joking, sweetie. You always take things so seriously."
But her eyes weren't joking.
They scanned my face with the same intensity she'd used when I was twelve and had broken her favorite vase. The look that said she already knew the truth and was just waiting for me to admit it.
