After that fiasco, the New Year came quickly.
I didn’t want to go back, but since it was Catherine’s first year married to Nathaniel, she’d probably be spending the holiday with his family. That left my mother alone at home for New Year’s, and I couldn’t shake the worry.
So after thinking it over, I bought some gifts for the holiday and went home.
I didn’t return until New Year’s Eve. I hadn’t expected to run into Catherine. It was like she had been waiting for me, because the second she saw me, she started mocking me with that fake, syrupy tone.
“Bella, it’s already New Year’s Eve and you’re just getting home. You must’ve made quite a bit of money these past months. I wonder how much money you’re giving Mom this year.”
My mother frowned, trying to smooth things over. “It doesn’t matter if she gives one or not, as long as you both come home for the New Year, that’s enough.
“Bella, you’ve been gone almost a year now. Is there anything you’ve been craving? I’ll cook it for you right away.”
I squeezed my mother’s hand, telling her not to fuss. Then, I pulled out the gifts I’d bought in the city.
I gave Catherine a quick, cool glance. “I didn’t make that much money, but at least I earned it myself. These gifts aren’t anything fancy, probably too cheap for you.”
Her face flickered with irritation.
I knew better than anyone what kind of person she was.
44
A
In my past life, she was lazy and spoiled, and in this life, with Nathaniel supporting her, she’d never bother working either. Then, I handed my mother a stack of money.
The moment Catherine saw how thick it was, jealousy flashed in her eyes, and her jaw tightened.
24
Just then, there was a knock at the gate.
On New Year’s Eve, not a lot of people would show
up
here.
