Chapter 75

• Once outside, Andrew led the way as Emerald and Annie followed silently, Emerald's mind already spiraling with thoughts. As she worriedly interlaced her fingers, she speculated that Andrew had come to discuss the situation involving Mrs. Ruth. The scenario seemed simple: either it was entirely false, or it was true. While Emerald had placed some level of trust in Andrew, a persistent doubt always nagged at her, cautioning her to distance herself if the rumors proved true.
• Both Annie and Emerald halted when Andrew turned to face them. "Annie, I'm sorry for pulling you away like this. I didn't want to single out Emerald."
• "Oh, I figured as much," Annie replied, scrutinizing Andrew to gauge the truth from his expression. "I'll leave you two to talk," she said, squinting so intensely that Emerald wondered if Annie could see anything at all.