As she waited for a response from the device, Pattee turned to Sabienn, “We need to talk. There’s not much time.”
While speaking, Bess appeared at the door and looked in upon the pair seated in the back seat. Her eyes were wide and filled with wonder as she gazed on the woman Sabienn knew from the Academy.
“Who’s this?” said Pattee.
“She needs to talk too,” said Sabienn, pulling himself back in the chair so Pattee and Bess could get a good look at one another. “She’s your niece.”
There was a moment’s silence then Pattee let out a laugh; an uncontrolled and knee-jerk response. When she saw that no-one was delivering a punchline, Pattee then looked intently at the young woman.
“I’m Bess,” said Bess quietly. “You’re my aunt. Aunt Amelee.”
“Amelee?” said Pattee. The saying of the word ha
