Ellinor hung her head, which only seemed to fuel Sheila's pride even more.
"What happens to you? That depends on how sorry you are and my mood!"
At this, Tracy heaved a resigned sigh, advising Sheila gently, "Come on, Sheila, Ellinor's your sister after all. Don't be so hard on her!"
Then, turning to Ellinor with a face full of compassion, Tracy said, "Ellinor, you've taken Sheila's place for so long and you've ruined her career. But we'll chalk that up to you being young and dumb, and we won't dwell on the losses. All you need to do today is give Mrs. Blanchet's place back to Sheila. Leave here and promise never to show your face again. Never mess up Sheila and Mr. Blanchet's marriage. Then we're square!"
"That's letting her off too easy!" Sheila wouldn't let it go.
Tracy gave Sheila a look, pretending to admonish her, "Sheila, if not for Ellinor's sake, do it for your dad's sake!"
Sheila caught Tracy's hint, understanding that she was telling her to keep her cool. Dealing with Ellinor didn't need to be rushed; getting her out of the Blanchet family was the top priority.
So, Sheila backed off, letting Tracy have full control over the situation.
Arnold watched his understanding wife with a mix of love and admiration, along with a hint of guilt for misunderstanding her in the past. He took her hand, saying, "Tracy, you and Sheila have had it rough. After all that's happened, you're still willing to forgive that ungrateful Ellinor for my sake!"
Putting on a show of tenderness, Tracy replied, "Arnold, what are you talking about?! We're family!"
Beset by guilt, Arnold's anger flared. He glared at Ellinor, the cause of all the trouble, bellowing, "What are you waiting for? Aren't you going to thank Auntie Tracy for her generosity? You'd better be grateful! If not, even if Tracy forgives you, I won't!"
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: The Kiss that Sparked it All