Chapter 74

Thea smiled. "Whether or not you’ve treated me well is evident to others; I don’t need to say anything."

Ivy coughed angrily. "What have we ever done to wrong you? Consider everything you’ve done over the years. Haven’t we always cleaned up your messes? Do you even acknowledge me as your mother?" Ivy’s voice broke.

Thea pressed her aching temples. In the past, she would have softened, reflected on her mistakes, and tried to appease Ivy with gifts, cooking, or other gestures. But ultimately, when it came to sacrificing Thea to please Emmalie, Ivy wouldn’t hesitate.

Thea opened her eyes, her tone impatient. "Just tell me what you want this time. Stop playing the victim; it must be exhausting."

"How dare you speak to me so rudely? Don’t you care if I’m upset?" Ivy demanded.

Thea interrupted. "I’m very busy. If that’s all, I’m hanging up."

Reluctantly, Ivy said, "Max’s birthday is coming up. We’re throwing a party. Have you prepared his gift?" Thea was surprised. Is that all? she thought.

"Don't worry," Thea said coldly. "Of course, I'll get Max a gift. Even if you don't treat me well, we still need to maintain appearances."

Her words sent Ivy into another coughing fit.

"Fine," Ivy said. "This is how you treat me now—with indifference. I don't want to waste my breath. You're coming home the day before Max's birthday. We need your help." Thea offered a perfunctory response. She silently fumed. Whenever they need something, they come to me. When they don’t, they coddle Emmalie. There’s no way I’m going back. They can ask whoever they want to help!

Max’s birthday party was scheduled. It was different from previous years; far more guests attended. In the past, the Rowland family had been in decline, considered a minor household in Key Biscayne. But now, with Emmalie’s return and Max’s promising future, things had changed. Even Thea, once considered the family’s most troublesome child, was rumored to be marrying into the Hendrix family, according to recent family pronouncements. Most attendees were there because of the Hendrix family.

Thea didn’t understand why Ivy had spread this news; she hadn’t invited anyone from the Hendrix family. To her surprise, Jake and Jepson, and even Nicolas, were present.

Chapter 71

When Ivy saw Jake, her face lit up; she fawned over him.

Thea watched from a distance with mild indifference.

Jake noticed her and approached. Thea turned to leave, but he caught up.

"Thea," Jake said quietly, "I even came to Max’s birthday party to protect your reputation. Aren’t you satisfied?"

Thea raised an eyebrow. "You’re doing this for me? The Hendrix family probably pressured you."

Jake was speechless but grabbed Thea’s hand. "Many people are watching. If you embarrass me, you know what will happen." Thea felt resentment. She glanced at Nicolas, who hadn’t looked at her once, as if they were strangers.