When fate plays its hand (Miranda)

Chapter 0830

“I actually thought about the possibility of you surviving,” Nelly said, her voice laced with disdain. “Maybe as a cripple, maybe sold to some remote mountain village, or maybe even as a beggar… but I never imagined you’d end up living so comfortably.

“Minnie, why do you have such amazing luck? Even after being abducted, you came back unscathed. And when you returned, everyone treated you just like before.”

Mindy met her gaze evenly. “It seems like you’re really envious of me.”

Nelly let out a cold laugh. “Yes, I envy you, but I hate you even more!”

Suddenly, the sound of footsteps approached, followed by Miranda’s voice. “Mom?”

Mindy cast Nelly a deep look before turning back toward the house. “Mimi, I’m here-”

“Grandma’s been asking where you went. She’s been looking everywhere for you.”

“I just finished sorting some things; I’ll be right inside!”

Nelly stood frozen, not moving an inch. Snowflakes then fell onto her head, melting into her hair. She could feel the chill seeping from her scalp straight into her heart.

When Timothy and Sam came out of the study, Fiona was nowhere to be seen. Only Mindy remained in the living room. Nelly had also left at some point.

Even so, Timothy didn’t ask a single question.

“Dad, I’m going outside for a smoke,” Sam said, heading toward the door.

Timothy turned to Mindy, walking over to stand in front of her. His heartbeat quickened uncontrollably. “Happy Easter, Min.”

replied with a faint

met–one gaze deep and turbulent,

“Finished talking with Dad?”

nodded. “I’m heading

“Lionel, stop for now and come out. Let’s see. our brother–in–law

heart. He simply lowered his head, concealing the pain and sorrow in his

hurrying from the

+25 BONUS

Chapter 0830

handed him a napkin. “Here, wipe

said while taking the napkin. “The milk’s almost ready.

Earlier, Mindy had mentioned feeling cold after returning from the garden and asked

something warm to drink.

fetch her a hand warmer, while Lionel had gone straight to the kitchen to make warm milk.

go,” Mindy said. “We’ll walk

responded with a

silent as he

holding a cigarette between his fingers. Timothy

“Sam,” he called.

back. “Dad, you’re

“Yeah.”

cigarette

called out, “Mimi, come over here and see your cousin and uncle