198- Rafael's Suite

"This isn't over," Valerie muttered through clenched teeth as they exited the lobby, "Not by a long shot."

She had freed her arm from Nina's grip and was now storming out of the building. Nina who was getting breathless while trying to keep up with her daughter-in-law, at last, reached her and grabbed her blouse.

"Can you stop for once? For God's sake, Valerie," she said trying to regulate her panting. She might be a fit-looking woman, but she always kept her focus on good food.

She had never exercised a day in her life, not even taken a walk.

Valerie had halted in her steps but wasn't turning around to face Nina. Holding her elbow, Nina was trying to control her rugged breathing.

Valerie's shoulders were stiff, and Nina was doubtful that she might start crying again.

"You need to get a grip on your emotions, Val," she rounded her to face her. Thankfully, she wasn't being a 'sob baby' anymore.

"Nina…" Valerie didn't say anything else.