“Bradley, there’s something I’d like to discuss, and I brought wine in Esther’s stead,” Mandy said, handing the tray
to Bradley.
Bradley took the wine glass and replied, “Mandy, please have a seat.”
Mandy settled on the sofa opposite Bradley. “I apologize for tonight. My mother hasn’t adjusted yet, and…”
Thinking about Liora’s behavior made Mandy feel awkward.
Bradley gently reminded her, “You saved me, and I’m accommodating you.”
Mandy understood his meaning. She knew Bradley was emotionally distant, almost cold.
“Bradley, if my father won’t hand over his hidden forces…”
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtBradley raised an eyebrow and sneered. “Mr. Pendleton has no choice, but we might need to put on an act
together.”
“I’d be honored to help you, Bradley.”
Mandy always felt uneasy alone with Bradley, unable to predict his next move.
“I’ll rest now, Bradley.”
Bradley didn’t stop her, and Mandy sighed with relief. She would act with Bradley but wouldn’t risk her life for X’s
orders.
–
In her bedroom, Liora sat on Mandy’s bed, wiping tears.
“Mandy, do you despise me?” Liora asked tearfully upon seeing her.
Mandy rubbed her temples, feeling a headache. “Mom, it’s been a long day. Can you not be melodramatic? I am
tired and just want to rest.”
Liora, surprisingly motherly, scrutinized Mandy’s face. “Mandy, let me see your face…”
Mandy declined quickly. “No need.”
She wondered where X found such a skilled plastic surgeon—her face hadn’t changed despite Liora’s slap.
“Mandy, I’m sorry.” Mandy waited for Liora to continue silently. “Mandy, a girl’s face matters. Your father likes me
because I’m good-looking!”
Mandy half-smiled, asking, “Mom, what are you trying to say?”
Liora nagged, “My silly daughter, I mean Bradley is an excellent man. You should catch his attention.”
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm
Mandy was rendered speechless.
Liora envisioned a better life if Mandy married Bradley. “Mandy, you donated your liver to Bradley and hold a
special place in his heart…”
“Are you trying to profit from your daughter?”
Comparing Liora to Leah, Mandy felt Leah was a much more caring mother. Leah always considered her feelings,
never forcing her into marriage for a better life.
“Mandy, how can you say that? I’m doing this for your own good…”
Mandy sneered. “Is it for me or your own desire for wealth and luxury? You know it!”
Mandy walked to the door and told Liora, “Look in the mirror and ask yourself if you’re fit to be a mother.”