When fate plays its hand (Miranda)

Chapter 0852

Fiona believed that her kindness had been rewarded with the child growing inside her. She truly thought Florence was her lucky star.

After discussing it with Aren, they decided to adopt the three–year–old Florence and rename her Nelly Garrison. The name symbolized their wish for her to honor the kindness that gave her a second chance and never forget her roots.

But the reality was the complete opposite.

Looking at her adopted daughter, now a stranger to her, Fiona felt a pang of sorrow in her cold heart.

Aren rose to support his wife. His voice was icy as he said, “Do you really think we care about the Coopers? If it weren’t for Sam, I’d be saying a lot worse right now.”

He continued, “If you want to make demands, then bring something of equal value to the table. The Coopers, including Timothy, don’t mean anything to us.”

Nelly jumped to her feet and was furious. “You”

Sam quickly stepped forward and grabbed his mother’s arm. “Mom, that’s enough!”

“You’re my son,

and you won’t take my side?”

just want to know. Did you have anything to do with Aunt

“Sam!” Nelly gasped.

“Just answer me?”

“Sam!” she repeated.

“So, it’s true.”

Nelly didn’t expect her son

back, and his shoulders slumped. His eyes dropped as the truth

No wonder his parents fought so much, and

howled and cut

sending Nelly away, Aren kept Sam behind and said, “You’re a good kid. Over the years, you’ve

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continued, “I didn’t tell you what I was going to say at the banquet for two reasons. First, I wasn’t sure how to bring it up.

me…

accept Nelly, but they couldn’t let

25 BONUS

held it loosely between his fingers. The smoke spiraled lazily in the air, but he was too absorbed in his thoughts to take a puff. He let the cigarette burn down, and the

half–lidded eyes made it hard to discern any clear

“Well… What a coincidence.”

chuckle