“Shopping? At a time like this, with the family in such a precarious situation, you’re in the mood for shopping?”
Tamara’s smile didn’t waver, though her tone softened significantly. “I just needed to clear my head... The atmosphere at home has been so oppressive lately; it was suffocating. Besides, I’ve been back for so long and haven’t had a chance to catch up with my friends. They happened to invite me out today, and seeing how busy everyone was, I didn’t want to bother you.”
She stepped forward, actively linking her arm through Zadie’s and giving it a playful, affectionate shake. “Mom, don’t be angry. I’ll be more careful next time.”
Zadie sighed, her expression softening. “Fine, just keep it in mind. Regardless of the circumstances, you need to tell the family before you go out.”
The Sherwood family had made their stance clear: if Tamara caused any more trouble, they wouldn’t be as polite as they were last time.
The thought made Zadie massage her temples, her voice thick with exhaustion. “Your father and your brother, Josiah, are overwhelmed with company issues right now, and Clive has gotten himself into trouble again... Sigh. If only the Sherwood family would step in to help us.”

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABEL
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Prison-Made Queen