Crises in Love (Zora and Jaylan) novel Chapter 510

When she was about to speak up, I quickly shushed her with a finger to my lips, motioning for her to follow me out of the room.

Monique rolled out of bed with a huff and followed me, her small hand in mine as we made our way downstairs. She tried to wriggle free, but I held on tight until we reached the living room. That was when she yanked her hand away, her chin jutting out defiantly as she confronted me, "Mom, seriously? I didn't think you were like that. Snooping through Fidelia's phone? Have you been doing the same to mine? You're just a little too controlling."

Her words came out in a torrent of accusation.

I replied calmly, "It seems you've got quite a few grievances with me."

"It's not just grievances. I hate this sneaky behavior of yours. You shouldn't be sneaking around. Grandpa said it was above board."

I couldn't help but feel a little proud inside. She sure had a strong sense of justice.

The idea I had discussed with Hannah earlier that afternoon was now unavoidable.

"What if it was a matter of necessity? What if I had to take a look without tipping anyone off?" I suggested.

She stared at me, dumbfounded.

"I don't have a snooping problem," I continued, "But I've sensed that someone, a stranger possibly, is getting uncomfortably close to us. Don't you think I should figure out who they are and why they're here?"

Monique looked at me, half-convinced, her tone less sharp, "What do you mean? Are you talking about the person sneaking into the backyard?"

She was alert, instantly picking up on the potential intruder.

"It might be more than that," I confessed.

Her curiosity turned to alarm, "Are you serious?"

I paused for a moment, considering how best to explain.

"When I came back this time, I noticed something off about Fidelia. She's always distracted, glued to her phone, and very cautious. Didn't you notice anything?" I probed further, "You're with her every day. Haven't you seen any changes in her lately?"

With my question hanging in the air, Monique's defiance waned as she shook her head in disbelief.

Leaning in close, she whispered, "How did you figure it out?"

"Yes." I didn't have my phone with me to show her the picture, so I described it as best I could, "Like the eyes of a cat in the dark."

She nodded, "Sure."

I reminded her, "But don't ask too directly. Be subtle. you know what I mean?"

She rolled her eyes with a touch of sass, "Mom, you underestimate me. I'll handle it by tomorrow."

"But what if she doesn't want to talk about this person?"

Monique's eyes twinkled as she confidently assured me, "Don't worry, Mom. I'll get the truth out of her."

I nodded, pleased yet cautious, "Just remember not to force it. If she talks, great. If not, let it be. We need to find out without her realizing. Got it?"

Monique stood tall, filled with a sense of responsibility, "OK."