They Hated Me in My First Life, But Now I Have the Love System

Chapter 26: His Entire Savings

Without much thought, she tossed the box aside, the action deliberate yet casual, as if its contents were beneath her notice. She had no intention of indulging them by opening whatever "gift" Chidera had prepared.

However, Queen Chioma was not about to let things slide so easily. She wanted to ensure her "concern" as a mother was on full display, especially in front of the king, and perhaps subtly remind everyone in the room of Nnenna's place.

After all, Obinna's unexpected gesture had already disrupted the carefully crafted hierarchy she had worked so hard to maintain.

"Now, Nnenna, that's no way to treat a gift," Queen Chioma said, her voice laced with false sweetness. "Come now, open it. These are thoughtful presents chosen specifically for you. Show some gratitude, my dear."

Her words might have sounded kind to an outsider, but Nnenna could hear the underlying command. It wasn't a suggestion, it was an order wrapped in flowery language.

Nnenna's fingers twitched slightly as she resisted the urge to retort. Instead, she leaned back against her pillow, her calm demeanor masking the irritation bubbling within her.

She looked at Queen Chioma, her expression neutral but her eyes cold. "Is it really that important?" she asked softly, her voice calm yet filled with unspoken meaning.

The queen's smile tightened. "Of course, it is, darling," she insisted, motioning toward the box. "Gifts are an expression of care and love. I'm sure Chidera put a lot of thought into it."

At this, Nnenna let out a barely audible sigh. It wasn't worth the fight, yet. Reaching over, she picked up the box again, her movements slow and deliberate.

She held it for a moment, her fingers brushing against the edges as if contemplating whether it was even worth her time.

Nnenna was still basking in the satisfaction of Obinna's changed gift. The Rolex watch on her wrist glinted softly. Buoyed by this small victory, she decided to humor the situation once more.

With measured composure, she opened the box Chidera had given her.

The moment the lid came off, a foul, nauseating smell filled the room. Her stomach turned as her eyes fell on the grotesque contents inside.

"A rat?!"

had given her a dead rat as a "gift."

the room. Even the king, who had been watching passively,

he shifted his gaze to Chidera, who stood there with a smug, unapologetic

everyone shared the king's

barely contained delight. This was what she had wanted, a clear message

their satisfaction evident as they reveled

chin proudly. 'Finally, someone knows their place,' Queen Chioma thought smugly, though she masked her true feelings with a

herself steady. She wasn't going to give them the satisfaction

at the box, then back at Chidera, her expression hardening into something unyielding. Slowly, she

none of the turmoil raging inside her. "I'll make sure

again. For a moment, even Chidera

taken the high road, leaving him and the others unsure

seethed. 'Love System,' she called out

"Yes, Nnenna?"

this one slide. Change this pathetic excuse of a

its tone almost amused. "You'll have to use more points

"Do it."

the system

Ding!

hearts to change gifts.'

His brows furrowed, a wave of guilt washed over him and a look of panic crossed his face as he stepped forward

the gift I meant to give!" he blurted

queen's smile faltered, confusion replacing her amusement. "What are you doing, Chidera?"