The day had gone surprisingly well, considering the emotional tornado that Ciara had brought into my room that morning. By the time Aeliana showed up in the garden, Ciara had visibly relaxed, and I even caught glimpses of her old, confident self.
Still, I was glad to see her soften in Aeliana's presence seeing my sister finally open up to someone was, honestly, a little heartwarming. Not that I'd ever say that out loud.
But as sweet as it all was, I knew things were about to take a turn when Riley appeared. She had a particular talent for breaking any tension in the room, usually by saying something wildly inappropriate or perfectly timed.
As I spotted her walking toward us, her expression caught somewhere between amusement and mockery, I knew she had something up her sleeve.
