My step niece? I knew Jeremy had gotten married a few years back, but no one had ever mentioned that his wife had come with a kid. Being referred to as someone's aunt made me feel [i]old[/i] - it was quite an unpleasant feeling! I really wished Mother would warn me about such things before sending calls my way. 

Unless... perhaps this was some sort of ruse? Whoever put Vivian up to this might be hoping I can become comfortable talking to her, that I might tell her more than I should. I certainly would not fall for such a scheme. But I needed answers, and fast.

My fingers hurriedly tapped the necessary keys to make my call. But I would not be talking to Vivian just yet. This call was to Mother - she had some explaining to do!