Jessica stood barefoot on the cool tile of the guest villa’s veranda, arms wrapped around herself as she stared out at the creek. The water rolled in gentle rhythms, deceptively calm, its hush a soothing lie against the chaos swirling in her chest.
She had made it through the confrontation without crying.
Barely.
That counted for something.
Although Mark had warned her of his mother's impending arrival at the resort, she'd apparently not done enough to prepare herself for the force that was Elaine.
But to be fair, she hadn't expected Elaine to show up at their guest villa that late in the night and with Veronica in tow of all people.
Plus, this was the first time Elaine had spoken to her so callously in front of Mark. She would normally treat her with fake kindness in front of her
