Tati could not help but grumble.

Her mother was the epitome of propriety. She was always perfectly made up, with high heels on, and was impeccably dressed even at home. She would even only remove her makeup when she went to bed.

Even now, waiting up late for her daughter, Margaret remained fully groomed. Her elegant, dignified image was impregnable no matter the hour.

Tati often wondered if her mother ever grew tired of it. To her, it seemed exhausting.

“With Isabella taking a few days off,