Chapter 34

Care was readily offered, but Lauren didn't believe it was genuine. True concern and love, in her opinion, stemmed from the heart; it shouldn't be begged or prayed for. She had expectations of the Bennett family, hoping to find true love within it, but now… Her eyes fell, reflecting disappointment and indifference.

Lauren knew how to win people's affection, but she didn't want to. She craved wholehearted love and felt no need for anyone's sympathy. Immediately composing herself, she appeared unaffected, her face once again cold.

Turning to Mr. Bennett Senior, she said, "Grandpa, I must leave. I have urgent work."

"Must you go now?" Mr. Bennett asked anxiously, his gaze falling worriedly on her bruises. "Shouldn't you go to the hospital first?"

"No need," Lauren replied. "It's nothing serious. I can manage myself. I have to go."

"What's so urgent? Your health comes first," Mrs. Bennett said, close to tears. She longed to approach Lauren but hesitated. "If you're too tired, quit. You don't need to work hard now that you're back with the Bennetts. I can give you as much money as you want."

Mrs. Bennett worried about Lauren, believing a girl from their wealthy family shouldn't have to work. She envisioned Lauren elegantly dressed, socializing with her peers.

Lauren ignored her and said, "I'm leaving."

Mrs. Bennett watched her go from the stairwell entrance, sighing, "Lauren is so stubborn."

Sally stepped forward and hugged Mrs. Bennett, offering silent comfort. Mrs. Bennett smiled at Sally, thinking, "Sally is truly a good daughter."

Later, Mr. Bennett took Darren to his study for a lecture. The others returned to their rooms. Sally remained with Mrs. Bennett, who lamented Lauren's departure. "Why is Lauren so stubborn?" she complained.

Sally, intelligent and cautious, understood that Mrs. Bennett's complaint masked genuine concern. She never spoke ill of Lauren, either directly or indirectly, maintaining her image as a gentle and considerate daughter. What Sally truly desired was power within the Bennett family—the trust of her parents and older brother Jeffrey, and Mrs. Bennett's dependence on her. She aimed to control the family, not as a pitiable figure clinging to her parents, begging and crying.

"Mom," Sally said, patting Mrs. Bennett's hand, "I know you care about Lauren, but give her time to adjust."

Mrs. Bennett nodded. "I didn't expect her to accept or become close to me immediately, but I want to care for her. She's badly injured, yet she insists on returning to college. I don't understand. Why doesn't she care for herself?"