“What the hell are you doing here?” Claire’s voice came again, sharper this time, as she walked up close to me.
I didn’t answer. I didn’t even look at her. Not because I was scared, but because I didn’t want drama at all–not at the moment.
I still had a big day ahead, so I couldn’t afford her to ruin my mood.
I was only at the mall because Tracy wanted us to shop before going for the interview. If it were left to me, I’d have gone
straight to the interview. I didn’t want anything to do with any of the Thayers‘ family.
“Janet, I’m talking to you,” Claire snapped. “Aren’t you supposed to be at home?”
I took a breath in as I slowly moved my cart beside me. I kept my lips sealed. Tracy left a few minutes ago to take a call. I
wouldn’t want her to witness this. So I tried very much to avoid their drama. But of course, Claire wanted more–more
especially Flora. The damage she did last time seemed not to be enough for her.
“She probably came to shop,” Flora said in her soft, fragile voice. She turned to me, putting on her fake sad smile. “You can
join us to shop, since you’re already here.”
I didn’t even blink. I knew that fragile voice–like she wanted to break. That fake tone, as if she cared. But I knew what she was. I already knew her game. She played weak and innocent at the same time, but every word was a trap. Every look was a
weapon.
“No, thanks,” I said, pushing my cart forward. “As you can see, I’m about to pay for my goods and leave. Enjoy your shopping.”
Claire stepped in front of my cart, blocking me. “Don’t tell me you bought all this with Rowan’s money.”
I looked at her slowly, my lips pressed. I was calm and steady. Why is it the whole Thayers think it’s all about their money? I thought before I replied, “Last time I checked, I’m still Rowan’s wife. Spending his money is also my duty.” I didn’t want to spill the tea that I’m getting divorced from Rowan. It’s not like I’m ashamed of it, but I don’t think it’s appropriate to break it
to her yet.
I looked at Flora as I saw some kind of jealousy on her face when I said I’m still married to Rowan. A flicker of something sharp. But she flipped it just as she used to and plastered her fake smile.
“That doesn’t give you the right to shop like a spoiled brat,” Claire hissed. “I really wonder what my brother saw in you. You cling like a leech.” Claire’s mouth twisted.
I didn’t even move, neither did I blink. Whatever they think Rowan sees in me is nothing. It’s not like he loved me the way I loved him. And moreover, I’m divorcing him soon. It will soon be over.
“Did you seriously get the Emerald Enchantment limited edition?” Flora asked, her tone sweet and mocking at the same time. “With his money? That dress is way too expensive.”
I sighed. Loud enough for them both to hear. “It was never your business, Flora. You know what? I’m not doing this with you guys. Enjoy your shopping.”
I tried to move, but Claire stepped in again, loud and proud.
“That dress looks fake anyway,” she smirked. “Are you sure you didn’t get it from some second–hand store?”
My hands clenched around the handle. But I didn’t speak.
“I guessed as much–you don’t even know the value of money,” Claire added. “Just a housewife, spending someone else’s sweat. No sense of pride. No work. Just shopping and showing off fake elegance.”
Flora touched her arm softly. “Don’t be so hard on her. She’s just…. confused. It’s not her fault she doesn’t know how to dress classy like we do. I have tried to help, but she mocks me, saying I want someone’s husband? That hurts. My husband is dead
she trailed off, and her voice cracked like she would cry.
1/3
Chapter 0014
+25 BONUS
Here she comes–she put on her tears again to gain pity from people. But I already know who she is, so all this is not new to
me anymore.
“I don’t even know why you feel like the whole world revolves around you now, Janet,” Claire snapped. “We picked you from
the street, Janet. Without us, you wouldn’t have known what luxury life is. You’re nothing.”
And that’s when I heard the voice.
“You should really look in the mirror before calling someone nothing.”
