Chapter 20: Xena's Sanctuary

Elsewhere

Maria pulled up into a suburban house of decent size. She alighted from the car and as she reached the front door she heard, "Eldest Miss." greeted the old woman who opened the door for her. Maria walked into the lounge and 5 people sat gathered waiting for her.

"Why are you late? Shouldn't your engagement to that McCann boy be announced by now?" Firmly questioned an elderly woman. Maria bowed and replied, " I seem to have run into an unexpected barrier, but it's nothing I can't handle. In fact, wait for the good news today." She smirked. "How long will it take you to take over that boy Israel properties, I heard from our spies you have not been reporting to the office this week, what happened?" asked the male who sat on the elder's right-hand side. "You do not need to concern yourself about this, I've told you I've run into a little delay, nothing I can't handle." Maria spoke through her gritted teeth.