Sonia’s mouth moves soundlessly, the coldness in her father’s eyes robbing her o

Sonia’s mouth moves soundlessly, the coldness in her father’s eyes robbing her of coherent speech. Violet steps in to rescue her, her arms outstretched, her voice dripping with honey. “My name’s Violet, Mr. de Prima,” she says. “I’m so glad to finally meet you!”
After a few moments’ hesitation Frank shakes her hand, while Sonia avoids making any further eye contact with him.
“I was just telling Sonia how much I admire these lovely old brownstones,” Violet says. “Have you lived here long?”
“Nearly forty years,” says Frank tersely. He turns to Sonia. “Sonia, please answer my question. Where-”
Violet slips past him and up the stairs. Sonia feels giddy, as if she has just stepped off a roller coaster.
“Sonia!” says her father. “I demand to know what’s going on!”
Sonia throws her shoulders back and lifts her chin. Then she pushes past him to follow Violet inside.