The Perfect Wife's Perfect Revenge

Chapter 117

Hearing that it was her daughter calling, Victoria let out a small sigh of relief.

For a moment, she'd thought McNeil was up to some new mischief again.

"Mummy, tomorrow's my birthday. Will you come?"

Gwyneth's voice was plaintive and hopeful.

Victoria paused, realizing it had been nearly five days since she last heard from Gwyneth-the longest stretch since she'd promised her that new video game.

She must have grown tired of asking. Every time, Victoria told her, "Wait until your birthday."

Now, at last, the day had come.

"Yes, I'll bring your game over tomorrow," Victoria replied.

Gwyneth squealed with delight on the other end, but as soon as the words left her mouth, Victoria regretted it.

Gwyneth was almost certainly staying at Winding Peak Lane with Violet. Bringing her birthday present meant Victoria would have to go there too.

And that house-Violet's house-was the one place Victoria dreaded most.

private haven—until he went

were signed and she told herself she no longer

dish. No matter how many times you wiped it clean, you'd never want to eat

best, Mummy! You're

her joy

your favorite cupcakes too—but don't eat

as Gwyneth finished celebrating, Violet's voice drifted over faintly

a whisper. Victoria guessed she was covering the phone with

late. I have to go

forced a big yawn, trying her best to sound

was flat, emotionless. "Alright. Get some

didn't remind Gwyneth of anything, didn't ask about school. She just

was eager to get to the fruit and cupcakes Violet

late. After being jolted awake by Gwyneth's call, Victoria's tiredness

then slipped gratefully under

up in, the one her

wrapped in her mother's arms. For the first time in a while, Victoria's mind was blissfully free

fell asleep the moment her

***

Gwyneth waiting on her phone. "Mummy, I'm home! I'll be waiting for

night. The moment dawn broke, she'd messaged