Chapter 28

I avoided mother–daughter bonding whenever possible. But when forced, I endured it.

Jared drove us himself while his driver collected Yvonne.

My memories from before were fading, and this life wasn’t following the same script. I had no idea what would happen next -but whatever it was, I refused to be walked over again.

Jared had chosen an upscale Falansia bistro. When we arrived, Yvonne was sprawled across the sofa, her young face already bearing the cynical expression that didn’t belong on a child.

“You’re late,” Yvonne said by way of greeting, her voice dripping with teenage disdain.

“We hit some traffic,” Jared offered quietly. “Order whatever you’d like, sweetheart.”

all the greasy fried food,” Yvonne demanded, proving once again that forbidden treats were always

on these “unhealthy” foods, leading to endless tantrums as Yvonne fought

looked to me for support, and then murmured when I stayed silent, “Those will upset your stomach, sweetheart. You don’t want to

again, isn’t she?” Yvonne curled into a defensive ball, her small back turned

wants,” I

when do we allow this?” Jared’s eyebrows shot up at my sudden

eat what we decide. From now on, I won’t

cling to my arm. “Mom, you should’ve done this ages ago. Then I wouldn’t

wine–paired steak, foie gras, and

phone rang, he excused himself to take

brought Yvonne’s cake, and she immediately dug in with childish enthusiasm. “Mom,” she said between. bites, “my leg still hurts. Can I stay

and lounge around. Watching her hopeful expression, I took a slow sip of wine and

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255