"Augustus, you look tired. You should enjoy this last scone," Julia offers amidst the awkward silence.
"I can assure you, I have slept well and eaten well during my sabbatical." Augustus swiftly waves away the food. for he stiffly adds, "But... thank you, Julia."
Julia nods adoringly as if she cannot hear his forced tone and I suppress an eye roll.
My half-sister's persistent desire for my demise renders any of my attempts to dismiss her silly behavior as foolish - only a fool would underestimate their enemies and this second life of mine has taught me that lesson many times over.
What does Julia want to see? My suspicion and distrust? I mull over it quietly as I take a sip from my now lukewarm cup, waiting for her to show her hand, and she does very shortly.
