Chapter 6
A russet-haired lady hurried toward Esme, wearing a scarlet uniform with the words ‘City of Esperance’ embroidered on the lapel. Accompanying her was a girl around Esme’s age. Upon drawing closer, the woman’s face clouded with confusion.
‘Oh, I’m sorry, I … I thought you were someone else. An old friend.’ She trailed off uncertainly. ‘You look so alike …’
Seized with hope, Esme fastened on the woman’s face. ‘My mother’s name is Ariane,’ she blurted out.
‘Ariane Silver?’ The stranger smiled, her olive eyes crinkling around the edges. ‘Then … you must be Esme? Of course, there’s such a likeness.’ Her eyes roamed around the plaza. ‘So where is Ariane? It’s been so long … at least seven years now.’
Seven years?
Esme’s excitement came to an abrupt halt, like a ship suddenly grou
