Chapter 1478
“What, am I supposed to let them bleed me dry until there’s nothing left?”
Aurora had never been naive, nor did she have the temperament of a saint. If she still couldn’t tell friend from foe after everything they’d done to her, then she truly would be a fool.
Tessa felt a flicker of unease the moment she saw Aurora step inside. Could it be that Aurora already knew who was behind the rumors online? Her pulse quickened until she remembered that Aurora didn’t know she had ties with Aaron. Even if things traced back to him, it wouldn’t lead to her. She could always throw him under the bus if needed and keep her hands clean. That way, her image in Grace’s eyes would stay intact. That was like hitting two birds with one stone.
Thinking of this, Tessa lifted her chin and greeted her with a sweet smile. “You’re back, sis. Why didn’t you let us know you were coming?”
Aurora’s tone carried a sharp edge. “Do I need permission to come to my own house now?”
Tessa’s smile faltered, embarrassment flashing across her face.
“I didn’t mean it like that,” she hurried to explain, voice soft and innocent. “You always think the worst of me.”
“Oh? Then what did you mean?” Aurora’s laugh held no warmth. “Because it sure sounded like that’s exactly what you meant.”
Flustered, Tessa turned to Grace for help, her tone deliberately pitiful. “Mom, I just meant that if I’d known she was coming, I could’ve told the cook to make her favorite dishes. It’s been so long since she came home. She should at least get to eat something she likes.”
Grace actually thought Tessa’s words made sense and decided Aurora was simply being petty. She gave her younger daughter a disapproving look. “Did you hear that? Your sister was just being considerate. Must you always twist people’s good intentions?”
Standing off to the side, Arnold frowned. Why did Grace always blame Aurora without even thinking? Couldn’t they just sit down and have one peaceful family meal? Did no one notice that Aurora had lost weight since moving out? He sighed silently to himself. But as a housekeeper, and one already targeted by Tessa, he knew better than to speak up.
Aurora, however, voiced what he couldn’t. “So, Mom, the moment I walk through the door, you start criticizing me? Do we really have to turn every conversation into a fight? Or do you just enjoy arguing with me?”
Grace’s face tightened with anger. She pressed a hand to her chest, looking at Aurora in disbelief. “What’s that supposed to mean? Why would I want to fight with you?”
Aurora’s tone stayed calm. “Nothing, really. It’s just that your attitude says it all.”
“You-“ Grace’s breath caught in her throat, her face paling as she clutched her chest.
Tessa immediately rushed to her side, patting her back in feigned concern.