Tricked

Abigail's POV

***

It felt so good to be snuggled close to Henry, perceiving his scent and not feeling afraid.

Father had mentioned something about wanting us to discuss an important topic. I wondered what he wanted to say and I couldn't help but look up eagerly, waiting to hear his words.

Clang! Clang!

The shock of the sound was almost physical, and without thinking, my hands flew to cover my ears. Whatever had made that noise had nearly blown out my eardrums, and the ringing that followed left me stunned and disoriented.

The sound was harsh, much like the violent clatter of plates smashing against each other.

Glancing to my right, I spotted my stepmother, her face flushed red with fury, and two metal pots clutched tightly in her fists.

What in the world was going on?

Faced with my stepmother's rage, I instinctively turned to my father, pleading for his assistance. However, the look of tiredness on his face indicated that he had long since given up trying to pacify her tempestuous s