Despite everything, he almost smiled. Is Nora your mother? Lily nodded. Why is she scared? The child looked toward the door before answering.

Pretty lady gets angry. Mommy cries at night.

Graham felt something tighten in his chest. Before he could ask another question, the service door opened. Vanessa appeared with a champagne glass in her hand, her expression warm until her eyes fell on Lily.

“There you are,” Vanessa said to Graham. “Everyone is asking for you.” Her gaze returned to the child. “Lily, go find your mother.”

Lily leaned away from her. It was a tiny movement, almost invisible. But Graham saw it.

Vanessa smiled more brightly. “Now.”