CHAPTER TWENTY SEVEN – MORE SCHEMING

"Charlotte, this...this obsession is getting out of hand." Sienna wrung her hands as she spoke, darting apprehensive glances to where Jade and Bianca flanked them on the plush divan. All three were sporting matching "Oh God, our crazy friend is going to make us accessories to a crime" expressions. Charlotte sighed, mustering her most patient tone as she turned from the rain-lashed windows of the Jones family sitting room. "It's not an obsession. He's my soulmate, you guys - the loves of one another's lives! Yes, he's gotten a bit...confused for now. But it's only a matter of time before Alexander wakes up from this self-delusional tailspin and realizes what he's sacrificed." She turned back to the dreary evening drizzle snaking down the glass, her heart clenching with longing. "And when he does, I'll be right here. Exactly where I've always belonged - by his side." "Chara, that's all well and good," Jade's accented lilt was gentle but laced with concern. "But zis path you are on n