Phoebe's POV
Nathalia went rigid. My words hit her like I'd physically struck her. She couldn't even look me in the eye.
After what felt like forever, she stuttered, "D-don't worry, Phoebe. It won't happen again."
I nodded. I shot one final look at Patty, who still seemed completely lost, then turned and walked upstairs.
As the semester approached, the Hale family's sudden obedience caught me off guard. Whether my threats had done the trick or they were just waiting to watch me crash and burn, their quiet felt strange.
Clearwater University's semester started in late August.
That morning, Patty was up at dawn, decked out in a spotless white dress with her hair done to perfection.
When I walked downstairs, Patty made sure to speak loud enough for everyone to hear. "Dad, Mom, I'm off to campus for orientation!"
Watching Patty practically bounce with excitement, I raised an eyebrow, completely puzzled. I was speechless for a moment.
