Chapter 11 - THE NECKLACE RETURNED
Seline returned the Donna necklace three weeks later.
She arrived at Margaret's office with her attorney.
The necklace rested in a velvet case.
Vivien opened it.
The dark stone caught the light.
For a moment, she remembered wearing it at her first Summit.
She remembered Damian's hand in hers.
She remembered believing that the two of them would grow old together.
Then she closed the case.
Seline watched.
"Aren't you going to put it on?"
Vivien shook her head.
"Not today."
Seline looked confused.
"Why?"
"Because I want to decide what it means before I wear it again."
Seline lowered her eyes.
"I'm sorry."
Vivien studied her.
"For the affair?"
Seline nodded.
"And the money."
Vivien said nothing.
Seline continued.
"I thought you were just another wealthy wife who inherited everything."
Vivien almost smiled.
"People often mistake quiet work for no work."
Seline's eyes filled.
"I know that now."
Vivien looked at her.
"Then remember it."
Seline nodded.
Her attorney escorted her out.
Vivien remained seated.
Margaret approached.
"Do you want me to put the necklace in the vault?"
Vivien considered.
Then shook her head.
"Send it to the council."
Margaret frowned.
"Why?"
May you like
Vivien smiled faintly.
"Because it's time we stopped pretending a woman's authority depends on what hangs around her neck."
