The Killer Queen by Noella Briony

Chapter 79

The moment Merrick laid eyes on Noella, he knew exactly how he’d pen his new masterpiece!

The old man felt like his long–dormant writer’s heart had been reeled back in, and his creative block was smashed to smithereens!

Sienna was pretty flabbergasted too. “Dad, how many years has it been since you’ve written a book? I remember that you said you were gonna take a breather after snagging the Honor Literature Prize.”

The old man was all fired up, not showing a hint of feeling under the weather.

“After seeing Noella, I reckon I could whip up another ten books! Noella, kiddo, I’ve got a sort of music store and I’m handing it over to you. Pop in when you’ve got a sec and pick out a zither you fancy. We’ll start creating magic next week!”

Sienna jumped in to intercept.

“Dad, that music store’s got a ton on its plate. Noella will get worn out. If you’re fond of her, just snag her a zither and call it a day.”

Merrick’s store wasn’t just any old shop; it doubled as an art exhibition center where many maestros showcased their zithers, a real hub for the zither bigwigs.

“A girl’s gotta have her own gig. Noella, the store is yours now. Whatever dough it makes each year, it’s all yours. Oh, and throw in the gallery next door too. If it gets too much, have Beckett pitch in. He’ll handle the hustle and you pocket the cash. The old man didn’t see anything off–kilter with his plan..

He was doling out businesses to Noella left and right, with the vibe that he wouldn’t mind tossing a few more her way.

When Beckett heard this, he thought Merrick’s plan held water.

“Alright, I’ll keep things ticking over for Noella, and the profits are hers. If it tanks, I’ll take the

hit.”

The old man cracked a satisfied grin, “That’s my boy.”

Beckett already had his hands full, so squeezing in a family dinner was a feat. He was already buried in financial reports during his car rides, and piling more companies on his plate would probably run him ragged.

So Noella quickly chimed in, “I’ll manage it myself. It’s Grandpa’s hard work, and I’ll be sure to learn the ropes from Beckett.”

Merrick nodded, “Sure, they’re just small ventures. Have a little fun with them. And hey, if they go belly up, no biggie. Count it on me.”

Merrick sounded like he was practically grooming Noella to be some kind of spoiled heiress.

fuzziness inside. She knew that her grandpa felt like he owed her something. and that was exactly a thought from someone who loved her.

tender affection. Her silver locks didn’t dull her elegance one bit. Instead, they added a touch of

September’s around the corner. Have you decided on a university yet? If not,

letter from her bag

Imperial University to study jewelry design.”

her school and major a while back, partly because Imperial was closest to the Schnabels, and partly because she

courtyard, Old Mrs. Lambert had taught her

shine bright

design and make the prettiest jewels

the moon, showering Noella with kisses

Noella’s acceptance letter, Freya beamed ear to ear.

our Noella’s such a star! A scholarship offer, no less! The brainy kid

letter and planting several kisses on her!

was beautiful, sweet–tempered, and excelling academically even in the dump of the Lambert family. Such a flawless daughter was truly Sienna’s

you tell us?”

a bit speechless.

hitch in the Schnabels – not to mention Elara being some kind

a few days

himself with emotion, practically bawling. “The Schnabels have a few jewelry businesses – they’re all yours now! I will

12:21

Chapter 79

was all for it.

career. Noella, it’s not that your dad and I don’t want to take care of you. Look at me – I got pushed around because

painful memories,

off somewhere after Noella starts school. Let the eldest deal with the household mess!”

buy an island last time? We should get one for Noella when

have their fun and leave him to mop up the mess at

his wit’s end dealing with Ashlyn’s tantrums

what Marcel had advised her, Noella glanced at Beckett, who was lost for words.

lit

ages. They’ve watched her push Sienna around since

one having meat in her bowl, while Beckett and his little brothers could

And Ashlyn? She was all snarky, going on about