The monotonous sound of the phone ringing in her ear helped calm Allegra’s nerves somewhat. Talking to her mother was one of her least favourite things to do and she found herself really dreading the conversation that would follow. She wondered if the whole thing was just a waste of time, but had no more time to deliberate any further before the phone was answered.
“Well, isn’t this a lovely surprise,” her mother greeted her. “I didn't think I’d be hearing from you for a long time.”
“This isn’t a social call, mother,” she responded shortly.
“No, obviously not,” tsked Princess Venera, her voice grating on her daughter’s nerves even through the phone. “Not when you couldn’t even bother to tell me when you were leaving for your honeymoon. I take it you’re back, then?”
“Who told you we lef
