Chapter 140

“Oh my! It really is you, Miranda!” Karen Larden’s loud, surprised voice rang out from the doorway. “I almost didn’t recognize you!”

Karen, their boisterous neighbor, was known for her gossiping. Her husband also taught at Earnest High, and they had moved into the staff quarters the same year as Miranda’s family.

Upon seeing Miranda, Karen rushed over, scrutinizing her from head to toe. “Wow! Look at you! They say big cities change people, but this is incredible. You’ve really made a name for yourself!”

Miranda was speechless.

Karen continued, “Look at your outfit, your figure, your clothes, and those shoes! You’re so stylish!” She chattered cheerfully, “Miranda, it’s wonderful to see you’ve done so well in Elgerson City! I heard you know some important people—could you help my younger sister meet someone influential?”

Miranda looked puzzled. “Help her meet whom?”

Karen leaned in, lowering her voice conspiratorially. “A rich man! My sister’s young and pretty, only twenty-two. She could use a chance to meet someone successful.”

Miranda’s expression darkened. “Mrs. Larden, you’re mistaken. I’m not involved in that sort of thing and have no connections to offer.”

Karen looked surprised. “But Miranda, we’re neighbors. If you’ve become so successful, shouldn’t you help others? It’s only right to share your good fortune.”

Miranda’s frustration was evident, though she managed a tight smile. “I can’t help with that, Mrs. Larden. You’re expecting far too much of me.”

Seeing Miranda’s refusal, Karen’s smile vanished. “Oh, look at her. Now that she’s successful, she thinks she’s too good for everyone! I was just joking. What good girl would get involved with those kinds of people…”

“Mrs. Larden, watch your language!” Lionel interjected angrily. He tossed his bike aside and quickly stepped in front of Miranda, protectively. His face was red with anger, and his eyes blazed. “You can say what you want, but you shouldn’t spread lies! My daughter is pure and innocent. It’s you who’s spreading garbage!”

“Oh, I’m spreading garbage?” Karen snapped back, her longstanding animosity toward the Suttons boiling over. “Everyone around here knows your daughter hasn’t been home for years and is living with a rich man. It’s not just me talking. Go ahead, try to stop everyone from gossiping!”

“You—” Lionel sputtered, furious, his face crimson and chest heaving. “You’re just spreading lies!”

“Enough! You think you can silence everyone? How hypocritical!” Karen glared at Miranda. “What kind of respectable girl dresses like that? Always trying to attract men. It’s disgusting!”

Lionel’s face flushed a deeper red. “You—get out—” He clutched his chest, struggling to breathe.

Chapter 140

“Dad!” Miranda quickly administered his blood pressure medication.

Turning back to Karen, Miranda’s eyes were icy. “I tried to be polite, considering we’re neighbors, but since you’ve come to my door and insulted me, my politeness is over.”

Miranda grabbed a damp mop from the corner and swung it at Karen.

Karen screamed, “She’s hitting me! She’s hitting me!”

Karen tried to dodge, but most of the dirty mop water splashed onto her.

Miranda said, “Oh, I just used this to clean the bathroom. It’s not even rinsed yet. Perfect timing!”

Karen’s face paled as she seemed to register the filth. “You—little brat! You’re horrible!”