Chapter 43

Thérèse's form came out of the shadows.

"But I thought that you were.."

"Yes, Danielle, I am, but I have been with you all night and I had to make my presence known. The angels above have allowed me watch over you. More importantly, I had to make sure that I am there to witness my beautiful goddaughter's marriage to my favorite nephew." Thérèse smiled. "Just think of me as your fairy godmother, child. All you have to do is call on me when you need me and I will be there for you."

Danielle smiled through her tears.

"Now, no crying. I wanted you to be happy. Besides, I haven't told you everything that I needed to."

"And what was it you wanted to tell me?" Danielle asked.

Thérèse's fingers touched Danielle's cheeks to wipe the tears away. They felt like little wind wisps against her face. Danielle reached out to take hold of her hand, but she wasn't able to grasp it.

"We cannot touch, Danielle. I am not what I once was. I am nothing more than a transparent form at this point. Perhaps in time, things will change, but for now, please accept me the way that I am."

Danielle nodded her head without a word.

"Now, regarding the papers. They weren't what we thought, Danielle. They were instructions regarding that jewelry box, giving a full explanation where it was hidden and what to find inside. Auguste put them there for a reason, perhaps to throw off Vivienne's wild desire for extra money."

"So there really was none," Danielle said.

Thérèse smiled and shook her head. "Yes, Danielle. There was no windfall, just the jewelry box. As to the inheritance, however, now that is a different story, as I know you've heard."

Danielle nodded. "Yes, Godmother, it's seems that you and my father really did have everything under control."

Thérèse nodded. "We weren't insane, Danielle. Not in the least."

"Well," she said, watching Danielle yawn. "I should let you get some sleep. Do not forget what I told you. If you should have need of me, call anytime and I will be there. Goodbye until tomorrow, Danielle."

And she blew her a kiss and retreated back into the shadows.

"Godmother, wait. I forgot to ask you."

There was no answer and she was exhausted. She climbed back into bed and this time she slept until the morning sun shone brightly through the windows.