She reached out and tugged at Jeslyn's ear, declaring, “I'm calling your father this instant."

“But he's on a business trip," Jeslyn protested weakly.

“He's away on business, then. So he sent you to me instead? Look here, I'm not the one to be your constant guardian."

"Elsie directed me your way," the youngster retorted. "Told me you'd be willing to look after me. So she was only lying about that." No sooner had the words left her mouth than Jeslyn's eyes filled with tears, and she began to weep.

Jessie fixed her gaze on Jeslyn, observing as the tears made their escape.