As planned, Ruediger immediately called Felicia the next morning. He just had breakfast with Lariette.
When the sky in Velondia was still dark as the sun rose slowly, Norvonna's sky was already bright. His aunt was most likely at her office at this time.
The clock ticked softly in the home office. While Ruediger locked himself there, Lariette was busy getting ready for work. She knew he was there to have a private conversation with Felicia.
Sitting on the office chair, Ruediger put the phone by his ear, talking to Felicia. Despite bringing up the Alvords' dirty trick, his voice remained steady.
"Aunt, I thought you'd tell her about it. She called me crying last night."
Ruediger began by mentioning Madeline's frantic phone call. He heard Felicia chuckle softly, the sound traveling from the end of the line.
"Maddie secretly asked her grandparents after I refused to tell her. I didn't want to worry her much. I didn't expect she'd call you instead, Rudy. Your aunt is sorry."
