25
DAHLIA SAT BESIDE Alain and across from Father Renaud. Alain held her hand tightly. He had been so attentive to her this morning, protective even, in an odd way. Still, she was glad he was here with her. The familiar scent of incense still hung in the air.
“Awk, awk, amen,” the parrot squawked. “Amen.”
“Bless you, but hush.” After Father Renaud admonished his parrot, he turned back to them. “My child,” he began, his rheumy eyes focused on her. “I have prayed on this matter, and I am guided to convey what I know to you. You are a strong young woman, and it is time you knew about your parents.”
Dahlia pulled the large floral scarf she’d covered her bare shoulders with more tightly around her arms. She wore a white sleeveless sundress because they’d planned to go for another drive this
