Chapter 196

"She's your sister, and Grayson's aunt. If she marries Dominick, your son's safe from a bad stepmother."

Dominick, listening in on Emery's speakerphone, frowned.

Back on set, Paisley laughed derisively. "What nonsense? I don't understand."

Christina's gold earrings trembled with her rage. "Don't play dumb! You still want Dominick? Desperate to steal your sister's chance?"

Paisley felt a chasm opening between them. "First, Dominick and I are divorced. Second, if Brittany wants him, let her seduce him. Leave me out of it."

Dominick's face darkened, but Emery stifled a giggle.

Christina remained unconvinced. "Paisley, you're selfish! I regret you were ever born. I should have killed you!"

The hatred in Christina's eyes felt like a physical blow. It wasn't the first time she'd heard such words, but this time, the venom was raw. Her hands shook. She'd always believed her parents' coldness stemmed from her disappearance at three. Brittany had filled that void, soaking up their affection. But the truth was far worse. From birth, her mother had loathed her, even trying to kill her.

"Get out," Paisley whispered, trembling.

"What?" Christina snapped.

"Get out! Leave!" Paisley screamed, grabbing her phone and hurling it at Christina and Brittany.

"Ungrateful girl!" Christina yelled, dodging the flying phone.

"Mom! She's mad!" Brittany cried, clutching her injured arm.

"Paisley, I hope you die!" Christina screamed, shielding Brittany. "Never set foot in this house again!"

Security finally dragged them away, Christina's curses echoing behind them.

Gary rushed to Paisley's side. "Ms. Vaire, are you okay? Your phone's broken." He handed her the shattered remains.

Paisley took a deep breath. "I... I can't work," she stammered, grabbing her bag and leaving. Gary nodded, "Of course. Get some rest." Paisley forced a weak smile and walked away.