“I’m not doing this for revenge,” I said, though I wasn’t sure if I was telling them or myself. “I’m not doing it to punish her.”
“No,” Eleanor agreed. “You’re doing it because some things can’t be allowed to continue. Some lies can’t be permitted to stand.”
She looked at me with those sharp, knowing eyes.
“There’s no cruelty in telling the truth, Paige. There’s only clarity.”
A town car pulled up to the curb. Marcus had arranged it while we were inside.
“I should get your grandmother back to Brook Haven,” he said. “It’s been a long evening.”
Eleanor waved a dismissive hand.
“I’m not fragile, Marcus. But yes, I am tired.”
She turned to me.
“Come visit tomorrow. We have a great deal to talk about, and I want to hear how your design business is going. Really hear. Not the polished version you give me.”
“I’ll be there.”
She hugged me. A real hug this time, not the performative embrace Victoria had given me on that stage. I held on longer than I probably should have.
“I love you, my sweet girl,” she murmured.
