CELESTINE’s P O V

‘‘Auntie…’’ Leina hesitantly called out to her, and then she turned to look at me with panic clearly visible in her eyes. ‘‘Please refrain from saying anything like that to Celestine. She had no intention of doing it on purpose...’’

‘‘Who is it that you're calling Auntie?’’ Mrs. Maxwell exclaimed with a frown etched deeply into her brow, her eyes getting wider. ‘‘I told you to address me as mom, didn't I?’’

Leina focused her attention more intently on the food in front of her. ‘‘But... but Arnold and Celestine have been married for quite some time. I… I am concerned that you will not bestow...