Mrs. Sterling's expression had changed the moment she heard Sharon Dalton's outrageous claim. Now, hearing the murmurs of the guests, her face grew even darker.
"Sharon Dalton, what nonsense are you spouting! When did you become a child of the Sterling family? Timothy's daughter?" Mrs. Sterling's eyes were filled with warning as she glared at Sharon. "Let me tell you something, Sharon. The only reason I've ever doted on you is because you were well-behaved and sensible, and because you're my Aurora's cousin. Don't mistake the courtesy I've shown you for a license to make a fool of yourself and spout such utter nonsense!"
Mrs. Sterling's voice was harsh, and it was clear she was truly furious.
In truth, Sharon had regretted her words the moment they left her mouth. Her mother had warned her that she absolutely could not reveal this secret until they had gotten rid of Aurora.
