The Queen's Back

66

Chapter The moment the car stopped, Albert rushed inside, worried Barbara might have been waiting too long.

After Maxwell parked, Mona took his hand, walking with him inside. She wasn't sure if Barbara had really fallen down the stairs or if she was staging the whole thing to gain sympathy.

By the time they reached the door, Beatrice opened it. She was a bit surprised to see Mona, but after ushering Albert in. Beatrice warmly tried to take Mona's hand. Mona quickly stepped behind Maxwell, avoiding her touch. This was the person who had killed her mother. Mona didn't even want to pretend anymore.

Maxwell, having spent enough time with Mona by now, could tell she didn't like Beatrice and Barbara. He didn't like them much either, so he stepped in front of Mona, shielding her. Beatrice's face faltered for a moment but quickly returned to its usual friendly expression. Awkwardly, she said, "Mona, there you are. Come in, Barbara's in her room. She refused to go to the hospital after falling down the stairs. It breaks my heart." Mona gave a slight nod, not reacting much. If Barbara had really fallen down the stairs, she would've gone to the hospital to ensure her health. Clearly, she was playing it up for sympathy, targeting Albert, Jeremy, and even her grandparents.

Although they had both been driven out of the Clem family by their grandparents, it would be abnormal to say that they didn't have any feelings after so many years of growing up together. And there was also herself to consider. After all, her relationship with them used to be quite good.

As Mona and Maxwell made their way to Barbara's room, Beatrice stole glances at Maxwell. A few days ago, when she had suggested Barbara marry into the Powers family, Barbara had outright refused, saying she wouldn't marry Teddy. If she was going to marry someone, it it would be Maxwell, Mona's husband. At first,

Beatrice had been opposed to the idea. After all, Maxwell had a reputation for being an illegitimate child. Someone like that couldn't be a match for Barbara. But now, knowing Barbara's intentions, Beatrice began to observe Maxwell closely. Not only was he handsome, but he was also kind to Mona. He might just be suitable for Barbara after all, especially since he was the CEO of the Carter Group,

When the two entered Barbara's room, Mona immediately saw Barbara's swollen ankle, accompanied by some redness. Noticing the tearful look in Barbara's eyes, Mona thought to herself, "Wow, Barbara sure goes hard on herself.

him see Barbara's true colors for himself. She said calmly, "Barbara, your ankle looks pretty bad. Maybe you should go to the hospital to have it checked out?" Mona's suggestion

her head, looking pitiful "There's no driver at home. It's such a hassle to go to the hospital.

with such vulnerability that anyone listening

had significantly declined. Back then, Beatrice hadn't worked and relied entirely on the allowance from the Clem family: With little savings, they couldn't afford luxuries like a driver or a maid. Jeremy would sneak them some money occasionally, but it was just enough

clothes.

take them back into the Clem family. Without hesitation, he said, "That's no problem. drove us here. He might be willing to take

Chapter 66

her gaze filled with longing.

be able to resist taking a second look, but Maxwell wasn't like most men. While Barbara was talking t him, his attention had been entirely on Mona. From the moment

would work her charm and win his heart. Mona, on the other hand, shot Albert a look of annoyance. She wished they'd just sent a driver instead. This way, Maxwell wouldn't have to take Barbara to the hospital. But since Albert had already eagerly carried Barbara outside, there wasn't much Mona could do. She whispered to Maxwell,

had already carried Barbara to the car. Noticing that Maxwell and

way." Mona replied reluctantly, walking

I sit in the front seat? There's more space, and it'll be easier to rest my leg. I'm just worried Mona won't be

s soft, meant only

Upon

overthinking things. He felt it was strange that Barbara would be embarrassed to