Ana's POV
On Darius's birthday, my phone stayed silent—no call from Ridley or Hughes. When I tried reaching them, the line went dead instantly.
I stood there, stunned. With no alternatives, I snatched up the gift and flagged down a taxi to the Watson house.
The second I walked through the door, Pauline Watson's voice oozed with mockery. "Look who finally graces us with her presence! Your father and I don't matter anymore, do we? Or did you time this dramatic entrance perfectly?"
Spotting the wounds on my hands and feet, Pauline's face flickered with discomfort. "Aileen mentioned your injuries were nearly healed. Who's this performance for?"
I clamped my lips shut, a hollow pain blooming in my chest. Pauline used to show me kindness, but everything shifted the moment Aileen returned home. She blamed me for stealing Aileen's perfect life, yet felt obligated to keep me around to protect the family's image.
