A False Heiress's Guide to Love and Power

Mae arrived just then, carrying a pair of warm rolls and a cup of steaming milk. Vera didn’t have much of an appetite, but under Mae’s gentle

coaxing, she managed to take a few sips.

“Mae, what on earth happened tonight? Where is he?”

At this point, Vera couldn’t even bring herself to say “Dad.” She didn’t want

to acknowledge a man whose life revolved around drinking, gambling,

and violence as her father.

Mae sighed. “I was cooking in the kitchen when I heard your parents arguing. You know how your father is–can’t take a word of criticism without lashing out…”

She glanced anxiously at Vera, who clenched her jaw and twisted the hem of her dress in her fist.

“It’s okay. Please, go on.”

“I heard your mom shouting that she was leaving, that she wanted a divorce… Your dad wouldn’t have it. They started fighting again, and then suddenly, I heard your mom scream. After that, it went silent.”

memory made Mae

dad frozen at the top of the stairs. I barely had time to ask what happened before I saw your mom lying at

is such a good, hardworking woman. I’ll never understand why your dad can’t appreciate her. My husband just called to chew him out, said he spent the whole night at the poker tables.

not dead. Not a big deal.’ Can

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Chapter 390

that?”

vivid Vera could almost see her father in that smoky backroom, grumbling as if nothing truly

her father long ago. Ever since high

Wait for what?

a little older, Vera,” her mom would say. “Then we’ll move to the city, find a little place with a view of the ocean. Wouldn’t that be nice?” Her mother loved

ocean, loved to read, and spent her time crafting little things by hand. Somehow, her world had shrunk to this small town

do you think you’d be happier without me?”

I wouldn’t have any reason to go

away her tears. Mae saw