HARPER
I recognized the fire burning in Camilla's eyes. I knew that look too well—she was hell-bent on humiliating me.
Turning to Mrs. Smith, I said quietly, "Get Mila out of here."
The last thing I wanted was for Camilla to lash out at her or spit something vile in her face.
"What's going on?" Mila asked, her voice small, eyes wide with worry as she looked between us.
"Nothing, sweet child," Camilla sneered. "Just your mommy about to be punished for doing some very, very bad things."
"Bad things?" Mila's voice trembled. Her face went pale as she looked at me, uncertain and scared.
I sighed and looked at Mrs. Smith.
"Come on, child. Grown-ups need to talk," Mrs. Smith said, tugging Mila away.
"No!" Mila resisted, her little hands balling into fists. "I don't want her to get punished. She's good! She didn't do anything wrong!"
Mrs. Smith pressed her lips together but didn't let go of her. She paused just long enough to ask, "Will you be alright? Should I get the boss?"
