Mila grabbed her phone and immediately called Miranda. They had planned to leave together, and Miranda’s absence was worrying. She had been out of contact, and Mila was anxious to know what was happening on her end.
The phone was answered almost instantly.
Mira, Mila began.
Is that really you? Miranda asked, surprised. She usually avoided picking up calls from unfamiliar numbers, but her intuition had urged her to answer this time, and she was relieved to hear her friend’s voice.
How are you? That lunatic Lysander didn’t do anything to you, did he? Miranda’s voice was filled with concern.
I’m okay, Mila replied, her voice trembling slightly as she heard the familiar warmth. Tears welled up in her eyes, but she forced a smile.
What about you? Didn’t you board the plane? Mila inquired, knowing that by this time, Miranda was supposed to be mid-flight.
At the mention of the flight, Miranda’s tone turned frustrated, her voice rising in volume. Board what plane? Lysander’s gone mad! His men showed up at the airport and took my luggage. They even bundled me back home! My dad chewed me out for hours because of it! I’m so done with this!
Guilt washed over Mila. I’m sorry, if only I hadn’t involved you…
Mila! Miranda interrupted, raising her voice to cut off her friend’s apology. I’ll figure something out.
Remember back in school, we promised to be best friends for life, to travel the world together and see all its wonders? We made that promise.
So, trust me. I’ll help you, just like you’ve always been there for me, Miranda assured her.
Mila’s tears flowed freely now, her heart swelling with gratitude and relief. Miranda’s words were a lifeline in this moment of chaos, providing a strength she desperately needed.
Mira… Mila began.
Back in the Montgomery household, Mila couldn’t speak openly about these things. She had to rely on coded messages, but luckily, years of friendship meant Miranda understood perfectly.
Mila could only hope that the Lockwood family’s troubles wouldn’t spill over and complicate things further. She prayed that Miranda could communicate effectively with Roland. After all, they had saved him.
…
With the call to Miranda done, Mila took a few deep breaths to steady herself before dialing her great-aunt Jade, who lived in Verdelune. It was around nine in the morning there, so Jade should be awake.
Jade picked up quickly, and there was a long pause before her calm voice came through. Did he hurt you?
Aunt Jade, I’m fine, really. Don’t worry about me. I’ll handle things, Mila replied, struggling to maintain her composure despite the turmoil inside. She forced herself to speak in a steady voice, determined not to let her emotions take over.