Luis cut our conversation short. My father learned that Aunt Maurice was there and called for her to join the rest in the dining hall. Inevitably, I was forced to go too.
I didn’t trust my unstable stomach and wanted a way out. But I was aware there was none. Plus, he even sent Fred to check on me.
With his beta present, I followed Aunt Maurice, letting her take the lead while Fred walked behind us.
The double doors made my stomach quiver, and for a minute, I wanted to pull my hand free. As long as Aunt Maurice didn't open the door, I still had time to escape.
Yet, I failed to find an excuse for Aunt Maurice to let me go. As the double doors swung open, I braced myself for the stares.
It made me feel uneasy every time the attention of the gathered persons in the room fell on me. It was unsettling, and I felt conscious. My makeup must have worn off earlier after the episode in the toilet.