Chapter 75

Thinking of Erica, a beautiful girl who had committed suicide because of Lauren's selfishness and indifference, Larry's resentment toward Lauren grew. Mrs. Bennett frowned in disgust.

“Your grandfather is upstairs. Go see him, then leave. Don’t stay here for the next few days.”

Lauren said nothing and went upstairs.

Mrs. Bennett stopped her after a few steps. “Although you are my daughter, Sally and Erica were also members of this family. If I find out you bullied them, I will not spare you.”

Seeing Lauren's lack of reaction, Mrs. Bennett’s irritation grew. “Be kind, or I will throw you out!” This time, Lauren looked back at her mother.

Mrs. Bennett continued, “Even if your grandfather protects you, I will make you leave!”

Lauren was speechless. She didn't want to be there; if not for her grandfather, she wouldn't have entered the house.

Ignoring her mother, Lauren went upstairs, spoke with Mr. Bennett for a while, and returned to college. Erica, near death, was being treated by the best doctors the Bennett family could find. After three days, she awoke. Her once vibrant red lips were pale. Clara was distraught.

“Mom,” Erica’s voice was hoarse from sleep, “Am I dreaming?”

Clara held Erica’s hand. Erica seemed surprised by the touch, then smiled contentedly. “I must be dreaming! Only in a dream would Mom hold my hand.”

Erica closed her eyes, resting Clara’s hand on her cheek. “I’m so happy. I wish I were your daughter! But only in my dreams do I dare to think of that and call you Mom.”

Tears streamed down Clara’s face. “You are my daughter.” Erica’s eyes snapped open, bright as stars. “Really?” She looked at Clara expectantly.

Clara nodded firmly. “From now on, I will tell everyone I am your mother.”

Erica smiled radiantly. “Even if this is a dream, I’m satisfied.”

Two months later, Herman told Lauren that Clara was holding a banquet to publicly announce Erica as her daughter and change Erica's name to Erica Bennett.