find
something for you to wear? You’ll feel better after you’ve
had a nice warm bath.”
Normally Desiree would have offered her something
from her own wardrobe, but lately she had gained so much
weight,
she
doubted
anything would have fit Richard’s
daughter.
Her mother was about the same size as Natalie
and no one could ever doubt Charisse’s taste in clothing.
She always kept in style with the latest fashions.
Chapter 3
Henry returned to the sanctuary to find the Utopian
children still opening their Christmas gifts. He had forgotten
to
bring
his
own
presents
for
his
daughter
and
granddaughter. Thankfully, they were not there when he
arrived.
The residents of Utopia already had trust issues with
Meredith
and
Richard.
If
they
knew
that
Natalie
was
involved in Jasper’s death, they would be even more
suspicious. Judging by their jubilance, they hadn’t heard the
news about the deaths in Aeden yet.
Perhaps they could at
least enjoy one more day of peace.
“Henry, I wasn’t expecting to see you this morning.
Are you here to see Analie and Ambrosia?” Arthur asked.
“Is there somewhere we can speak privately?”
“Of course - the library is through the living room. I
assume you’re here to talk about the deaths in Aeden?”
“Yes, among other things.” Once they arrived at the
library Arthur closed the door behind them.
Henry took a
seat on one of the leather couches, while Arthur sat on the
corner of a large cherry desk. “I believe Natalie may be
charged with Jasper’s death.”
“I knew they suspected her, but Paul saidthey didn’t
have enough proof to bring her to trial.”
“
Natalie and Richard played me for a fool. She used
my friendship with Jane, to gain access to the Guild and
their family. I know Meredith knows more than she’s saying.
I don’t trust any of them now,Arthur.”
Running his hand through his hair, Henry informed
him about Paul’s comments. “I fear I could lose the colony
if the Guild recommends that I be removed as governor.
What would I do if they asked me to step down? My father
was the last governor. This is all I’ve ever known.”
Arthur could hear the desperation in Henry’s voice.
“Paul would never blame you for the actions of your
family.”
“What about Analie and Ambrosia?
If the rumors
are true, they could still bein grave danger.”
“I can assure you they’re perfectly safe here. They
just went to pick up a few things from Winnie’s house for
the little ones.”
Henry began to pace.
“I’m losing my ability to keep
the Utopian people safe. I had doubts about Richard and
Meredith, but never imagined Natalie as a murderer. I’m
planning to move Meredith and Richard to his country
estate.”
“You could move to the sanctuary with the rest of
us.”
“How would that look? People woul
d think I was
afraid. I’m staying in my home, but I’ll have them both
gone by tomorrow. If I know Richard, Natalie will be gone
when I return.”
“Doesn’t the Guild want to speak with her?”
“When have you ever known
Richard to care about
the Guild?
He thinksbecause they have Lucifer’s blood,
they’re untouchable,” Henry chuckled.
“I wouldn’t be too concerned. Paul’s words were
more
for
their
benefit
then
yours.
He
has
complete
confidence in you, but he may be trying to force their hand.
We
suspect
Richard
is
planning
to
overthrow
the
government here.”
“You are a good friend Arthur, better than I
deserve.”
“Nonsense - we both care deeply for the residents of
Utopia. I’m sure everything will work out.”
“Thank you. It means a lot to have your
confidence.”
“You will not be judged by your family’s betrayals
Henry.
The Utopian people still believe in you.
Perhaps
you should start believing in yourself again.”
“I need to see if my house is still standing. Meredith
wasn’t happy that I left. Without the younger servants there,
she’ll have to depend on someone else to cook her Christmas
dinner. Paul suggested she