Astrid stood as did her brothers and father, and left her alone, though she was immediately joined by Elaine, who scooted past the empty chairs to sit beside her.
"This must be difficult for you, my dear," her mother-in-law said, placing a gentle hand on Vevina's arm.
"Astrid is a stranger to me. I at least had gotten to know something of Arthur," Vevina confessed and shook her head. "I know nothing about Astrid."
Elaine sighed. "I would tell you of my daughter, but I do not know if the daughter I knew is the one who has returned home."
"She appears different to you?"
Elaine nodded and leaned closer, keeping their discussion private. "I believe her escape without her brother has left her with emotional scars as well."
Vevina shivered.
Elaine squeezed her arm, her eyes glazing ove
