Sharon Sterling bit her lip, feigning hesitation before nodding. "I wouldn't dare lie about my sister. I originally wanted to help her cover it up, but seeing how worried Grandma and my parents are, I was afraid something terrible might have really happened to her..."
"How outrageous!" Timothy Sterling was so angry he slammed his hand on the coffee table, making the cups and saucers clatter. "She's only been well-behaved for a few days, and now she pulls something like this! And here I thought she'd really turned over a new leaf. I can't believe she's gotten even worse!"
Mrs. Sterling's expression had turned grim. A violent coughing fit made it difficult for her to breathe. She couldn't hide her utter disappointment in Aurora Sterling.
Joy Dalton took in the reactions of Timothy Sterling and Mrs. Sterling. "I think Aurora is a sensible girl. I doubt she would do anything improper. Mom, Timothy, please don't be angry just yet."
