Chapter 2014: What Gives You the Right?

Norton’s threats and enticements failed to sway Lorraine. Finally, she said placidly, “Norton, stop wasting your energy. Get out. I really don't wish to see you again.”

The veins in Norton’s forehead bulged. With a chilling gaze, he said, “Lorraine, if you refuse to cooperate, you can expect to spend the rest of your life here.”

Lorraine laughed, an unfathomable sound. “Don’t worry. That won’t happen. My daughter will be here to save me very soon.”

“Ha! Do you really think your daughter can take you away from under my nose?” Mildred burst into the room, furious. She had been eavesdropping, fearing her husband might rekindle feelings for his former lover.

“Mildred, I know it’s hard to believe, but try to have a little patience. You will receive your karma for everything you’ve done to harm my daughter and me!” Lorraine glared at Mildred, resentment burning in her eyes.

Enraged, Mildred lunged past Norton, slapping Lorraine across the face. A loud slap echoed through the room.

“Who do you think you are? Who gave you the right to curse me?” Mildred bellowed, rage constricting her voice.

Norton pulled Mildred back. “Mildred, what are you doing? Why bother arguing with someone like her?”

A red handprint bloomed on Lorraine’s cheek. She’d lost count of Mildred’s slaps. Once weak and cowardly, she had always cowered. But things had changed. Returning from the brink of death, bolstered by her daughter’s support, Lorraine was no longer a punching bag. She leaped up and slapped Mildred back.

Mildred froze, eyes wide with disbelief. Norton stared, shocked. He had always seen Lorraine as weak and submissive.

“Mildred, do you think being from a prominent family gives you the right to treat others inhumanely? What makes you think you can scold or hit others at will?” Lorraine raised her hand for another slap.

Norton intervened, grabbing her wrist. “Lorraine, that’s enough!” he said coldly, pushing her away. Lorraine stumbled backward and fell.

Mildred, furious, was about to attack when Norton stopped her. “Stop it! Why are you two fighting? We’re supposed to be having a discussion. Mildred, calm down!”

Norton eventually dragged his wife from the room. A satisfied smile played on Lorraine’s lips. Norton was a stranger to her now; his actions held no power. Her priority was contacting her daughter, Madilyn, fearing her worry. She hoped Jonathan’s presence would ease Madilyn’s anxiety. Lorraine anticipated Norton threatening Madilyn to return to Xandenia, but Jonathan would be with her. He was, after all, the perfect match.