The next morning,

Because of the noise downstairs, Leandre awoke. Like yelling. So, even though he was not in the right frame of mind, he left the room. He could hear Emerald's voice as he descended the stairs as if there was an enemy nearby. When he entered the living room, he saw Jade furiously glaring at Emerald, and her sister looked as if she was about to eat someone alive.

"What's all this commotion about?" he asked, his voice firm and audible throughout the house.

His mother sat on the couch, and Cheska stared at him, her eyes wide open. He took a position in front of the four...