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.”

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 the landing. Blood was pouring from the back

the hospital bed, and shook her head. “Your mom is such a good, hardworking woman. I’ll never understand why your dad can’t appreciate her. My husband just called

she’s not dead. Not a big deal.’ Can you

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Chapter 390

that?”

see her father in that smoky backroom, grumbling as if

silently, knowing deep down Mae was telling the truth. She had given up any hope for her father long ago. Ever since high school, she’d pleaded

Wait for what?

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 the sea–said it was beautiful,

time crafting little things by hand. Somehow, her world had shrunk to this small town and a life of chores and groceries, her dreams washed away by

think you’d be happier without me?” Vera had

have any reason

Vera sniffled and wiped away her tears. Mae saw her like