Chapter 5

Alison died when Margaret was at the height of her career, at 45.

It was a cold, rainy morning.

Margaret couldn't even remember how she made it home.

She was holding the official notification of execution, crumpled tight in her hand—the last thing the state ever gave her about her daughter.

The villa was blazing with light.

Victor was sprawled on the couch, the TV blaring, and the table was stacked with beer and barbecue.

A variety show was playing, and every now and then, bursts of laughter filled the room.

It was a stark contrast to the gloom that…