Chapter 2062: Her Life Was Too Hard

When Roxanne heard that, her tense mood eased slightly. Following Bill's instructions, Lucian asked about her mother-in-law's life before her illness. Roxanne struggled to recall; she had been only five or six, and her memories were vague. She remembered her mother's long illness, but also her mother's sweet smile after kindergarten and the delicious food she prepared. Her mother loved flowers, filling their yard with potted plants, so the scent of blossoms permeated Roxanne's childhood.

At that time, Grant had just started his business, a small factory, and often traveled, bringing Roxanne small gifts and snacks. He also showered her mother with presents—clothes and jewelry. Her parents were loving, and Roxanne felt happy.

Then, their arguments began, escalating relentlessly. Her mother's sadness and anger were futile; Grant would break things and storm out, leaving a chaotic mess. Young Roxanne would hide, trembling in fear, worried he would hurt her mother, though he never did.

Roxanne didn't know the terms of their eventual agreement, but the arguments ceased. Her mother became busier, going out every few days, leaving Roxanne alone. Though the fighting stopped, her mother smiled less, her eyes filled with sadness. Sometimes, she would hug Roxanne and weep silently. These were likely the early symptoms of mercury poisoning. Seeing her mother's decline, Roxanne felt her own sorrow deepen. Perhaps this was when her desire to become a doctor first took root.

Her mother's illness worsened that year, confining her to bed. Many household chores fell to the young girl. Her father rarely appeared; she cared for her mother, trying to remain cheerful while attending school. Her mother became increasingly depressed, often crying uncontrollably. Roxanne didn't understand, but she held her mother close, sharing her pain. Those were undeniably difficult times.

Then, unexpectedly, Grant arrived with Winnie and her two children, Yosef and Yuliana. Roxanne suddenly had a new brother and sister. This shocked and enraged her mother, sparking a furious argument between her parents. Roxanne heard the word "divorce," but her mother refused to consider it, prompting Winnie's insults.

Grant's financial support ceased. Roxanne's mother had to sell her valuables to keep Roxanne in school and maintain a semblance of normalcy. The illness, unexpectedly, lasted three agonizing years, tormenting her mother until the end. Finally, her mother passed away. Afterwards, Grant forcibly took Roxanne to an unfamiliar villa. Less than a year later, he and Winnie held a small, discreet wedding, inviting only a few close friends, fearing a larger gathering.

The memories ended there. Roxanne remained deeply grief-stricken, unable to escape her sorrow.

"Darling, darling…" Lucian called several times before she returned to reality, tears welling. "My mother had such a hard life, honey! If I don't avenge her, I'll be failing her as her daughter!"