Chapter 7
“Baby, Mommy’s home.” I excitedly threw myself into Katherine’s arms.
While examining me for any injuries, she sternly told Gerald to pull up all the home surveillance footage. She needed to see if anyone had mistreated me in her absence.
Throughout the footage review, they didn’t dare to breathe.
“Good job, Gerald. Add another hundred thousand to everyone’s allowance.”
100,000!
Mom, is our family’s money really blown here by the wind?
“Betty, what’s wrong?” I nestled coquettishly in Mom’s arms.
“Mom, I heard brother complaining the other day that his allowance is too much–he can’t even spend it all. Maybe we shouldn’t increase it this time?”
The eldest brother opened his mouth several times to argue but ultimately went along with me.
“Mom, taking care of Betty is our responsibility. Let’s skip the increase this time.” Mom patted his shoulder appreciatively.
“Well done. After graduation, I’ll get you into the company.” He nodded, forcing a stiff smile.
06:24
Chapter 7
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After the small talk, Mom took me to my room.
“Betty, tell me truthfully–did anyone bully you while I was gone?” I ached to spill all my grievances, but now wasn’t the time.
“Nobody bullied me, I promise.” Mom searched my face for lies but found
none.
“Oh, Mom–why won’t you let me play with Paul?” Just like before, she tensed up at Paul’s name.
What exactly happened between Mom and his family?
“Big brother, you’re sure this won’t backfire?”
Heading to the kitchen for a snack, I overheard them.
“Relax. I’ve watched her–she drives herself to work daily.”
“Once we tamper with that car, this whole estate will be ours.” My blood ran cold. As I leaned closer, the door swung open.
“Betty, what’re you doing here?” The second brother’s voice tightened.
“I… I came for a snack.” “Second brother, why are you leaving big brother’s room so late?” He snorted coldly.
“None of your business.” He left with the other brothers.
Back in my room, my heart hammered nonstop.
Their words from that room looped in my head.
Next morning, I slumped at the breakfast table with massive dark circles.
“Bad sleep? You look exhausted.” I clutched Mom’s hand.
32.07
Chapter 7
“Mom, can you skip work today?” My brothers‘ faces instantly shifted.
The eldest brother pulled me from Mom’s grasp.
“Betty, don’t be selfish. Mom earns money for you.” I held on tighter.
“Mom, please–not today.” Her alert instincts kicked in.
She bent down, meeting my eyes gently.
“Sweetheart, did you discover something?”
The eldest brother cut in immediately.
“Mom, Betty just misses you. She wants time with you.” Mom visibly relaxed.
“I promise–after this busy stretch, we’ll vacation together.”
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Despite her reassurance, I wouldn’t let go. Resigned, Mom carried me to
her room.
Frantically, I dug out the flash drive. Just as I handed it over, a call interrupted us.
Mom’s expression darkened.
“Betty, something urgent came up. I need to go.”
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