#12: Cecelia Made Unusual Comments
Wedding plans finally reached the table, introduced carefully because Freya sensed how the topic pinched Leon into silence. He answered less than usual, weighing every word as if each might tip a scale. Cecelia seemed delighted by the spectacle of a ceremony rather than the marriage itself, praising aisles, programs, and lighting as if cataloging acquisitions.
Between compliment,s she predicted a long road and a tough time ahead, which left the couple puzzled and a little chilled. Then her tone turned gracious, almost generous, as she hinted at an offer that would help everyone, although the price would complicate everything.