I stumbled forward, barely catching myself. The suitcase cracked against the doorframe.
A dull ache dragged through my lower belly.
Joel's hands shot out to steady Lillian. He didn't even glance my way.
"Lily, are you okay? She didn't bump into you, did she?"
Lillian leaned into his arms, shaking her head, all grievance.
"I'm fine. It's just... Pauline seemed really angry."
I steadied myself and looked back at the two of them.
"I'm not angry."
"Dead people don't have anything to be angry about."
Joel stiffened.
He hadn't expected that from me.
His brow creased, his voice sharper now.
"Who the hell are you cursing this late at night?"
"You want to throw a fit, go do it at your parents' place. Get out of my sight."
I didn't answer. I carried my suitcase downstairs.
Lillian followed me out anyway.
She leaned against the second-floor railing, looking down at me.
"Leaving already, Pauline?"
"Oh, that necklace you're wearing is pretty. Joel said you hardly ever put it on."
"Why don't you give it to me? Think of it as a little welcome gift for the baby."
I stopped.
That necklace was the only thing my mother left me.
Joel came out and followed Lillian's gaze down to my throat.