Chapter 67: Playing the Sympathy Card
“Mr. Alaric, I think you shouldn’t waste your energy. For those who refuse to admit their mistakes, a taste of prison food should set them straight. After all, I have experience. Four years ago, I refused to admit I stole the necklace, but once I was in jail, I learned my lesson.”
Raylee’s sarcastic criticism of Samuel, laced with past grievances, made everyone profoundly uncomfortable, especially Waverly, curled in Samuel’s embrace. Panic filled Waverly’s eyes, though she forced a calm facade.
Alaric’s gaze was heavy with uncertainty. After hesitating, he agreed. “Then let’s call the police and have him locked up. As long as it makes you feel better, Ray-Ray!”
Raylee was surprised by Alaric’s readiness to comply. She immediately reported Samuel’s kidnapping to the police; forcibly confining her to a mental institution constituted kidnapping, a criminal offense.
While she found comfort in this thought, doubts lingered. Considering Samuel’s status as the Goodridge heir, would Alaric truly allow him to face criminal charges?
The police arrived within fifteen minutes, escorting Samuel away. Waverly’s cries were reduced to a hoarse whisper as she clung to him desperately, refusing to let go. Their forced separation resembled a tragic parting. She insisted on following them to the police station, accompanied by Harriet, who couldn’t bear to watch. Alaric also left after receiving a phone call.
Raylee felt a profound silence descend. Alaric soon returned with takeout.
“Ray-Ray, I’ve ordered some oatmeal. You’re not feeling well; something light is best,” he said, personally unwrapping the container.
Raylee was astonished. The esteemed Alaric was neglecting his son to cater to her? The usually stern head of the Jexburgh Goodridge family was showing unexpected concern? Even more astonishing, he scooped up oatmeal and attempted to feed her.
“Come, Ray-Ray, open your mouth.”
Taken aback, Raylee refused. “No need, I’m not hungry.”
“Try to eat a bit; you haven’t eaten all day,” Alaric insisted.
“Don’t play the sympathy card with me,” Raylee said coldly. “Such tactics won’t work. I need to rest. Please leave.”
Alaric’s brow furrowed. He set down the oatmeal, muttered a few words of concern, and left. He closed the sickroom door, sighing deeply.
He recalled feeding Raylee oatmeal during a childhood illness; she had been so obedient, finishing the entire bowl and kissing his cheek afterward. Had she forgotten those memories? Despite his busy schedule, he’d always provided companionship, giving her a happy childhood. Now, she considered him an enemy. Could a four-year-old incident erase his past efforts? Those unbound by blood, he lamented, could never truly feel like family. He'd raised an ungrateful wretch. If her assertiveness remained unchecked, she might seek revenge on the Goodridges after marrying into the Lorimer family. Samuel’s fears were well-founded; Alaric, with his business acumen, understood the danger of nurturing a tiger. He hesitated, then dialed Jeremiah’s number. “I have a secret about Raylee. Do you want to know?”
The following afternoon, after visiting her unconscious grandmother, Raylee returned to her room. Harriet arrived shortly after, carrying a thermos. The near-fatal stair incident seemed forgotten; her demeanor was warm and cordial.
“Ray-Ray, I’ve prepared your favorite truffle mushroom soup and red velvet cake. Surprised?” Harriet opened the lunch box, filling the room with its aroma.
Raylee remained unmoved. She gave it a cursory glance. She recognized Harriet’s sympathy play, mirroring Alaric’s oatmeal gesture. She found their tactics amusing, but unyielding. Harriet’s fervor was visibly dampened.