The ride was uneventful as Esther kept her focus on the road and Merry sat silently beside her, occasionally glancing at the paintings in the backseat to ensure they were secure.
Suddenly, the sound of a phone ringing broke the silence, startling Merry.
She reached for her phone and saw that it was a call from Mrs. Miller.
"Hey Mom," Merry answered the call.
"Where are you right now, Anna?" Mrs. Miller asked with anger evident in her voice.
"Mom, I am still at work. There's a bit of work left to do, so I will be here for a while longer to finish up before heading home."
Merry assured Mrs. Miller that she would be home as soon as she is done with her work at the gallery.
"Why didn't you call me to let me know you would be late? Merry, I expect you to communicate with me when your plans change and you will be late," Mrs. Miller responded sternly, disappointment lacing her voice.
