Chapter 155
Chapter 155:
Brenna’s expression remained unchanged, though inwardly her mind raced. The Barrett family had always managed to secure work in the past; there had never been a shortage of orders. Why were they now in such dire straits? It seemed their company was on the brink of collapse. Brenna’s gaze flicked toward Shepard, noting the icy detachment in his eyes. It was clear he did not favor the Barrett family—his dislike was palpable. Could the Barrett family’s current financial struggles be a result of his actions?
“Don’t worry, Brenna,” Shepard said, his voice steady and reassuring as his hand gently patted her shoulder. “I will help the Barrett family’s business.” His words carried weight, an attempt to maintain control and prevent his daughter from appearing ungrateful, especially in front of others.
With the Harper family’s promise, the Barrett family felt a newfound sense of pride, their dreams of joining Shirie’s elite suddenly within reach. The idea of growing their empire under such protection filled them with a quiet, satisfied anticipation.
Ruby smiled with practiced warmth, her voice laced with insincerity as she said, “I always knew you were a thoughtful child, Brenna. Though you’ve left our family…
“You’ll always remain my daughter. And should you ever choose to return, the Barrett family will always welcome you back with open arms p>
Brenna’s lips tightened into a thin line, her patience wearing thin. The words were like venom now, spoken with such deceitful sweetness that she could hardly bear to hear them. When she had left the Barrett family, Ruby had been cruel—her words harsh and cold. In the hospital, Ruby had shown her no respect, only disdain. Now, seeing the sudden shift in Ruby’s attitude, Brenna thought her hypocrisy was unbearable.
Trying to contain her frustration, Brenna glanced at her parents, her face unreadable. “I’m going to change my clothes,” she said, attempting to distance herself from the situation.
𝖈𝖍𝖊𝖈𝖐𝖊𝖉 𝖘𝖔𝖚𝖗𝖈𝖊: ⳑ𝖺𝗅𝗇𝗈ν𝗍𝖊𝗅𝘀․𝗰𝗈𝗺
Ruby, sensing an opportunity, quickly nudged Isabella. “Go with Brenna,” she instructed, her voice filled with false sweetness.
Isabella stood still, her face hardening as jealousy gnawed at her. Why was Brenna so lucky? Why had Brenna enjoyed the comfort of the Barrett family for twenty years only to step into an even wealthier life after leaving? The bitterness welled up inside her, and she crossed her arms, unwilling to move. She pouted, her eyes fixed on the floor, her envy growing harder to contain with every passing moment. Why was life so unfair?
Ethan gently took a shopping bag from Neville, his eyes softening as they met Brenna’s. He said, “Brenna, I picked this dress out for you. Would you like to try it on p>
Brenna glanced at the shopping bag, a polite and composed smile tugging at her lips. “Thank you, Ethan. That’s very kind of you, but there’s no need. My parents have already chosen a dress for me, and I’d prefer not to disregard their thoughtful gesture,” she said.
Isabella, standing nearby, clenched her fists, her eyes narrowing as she watched Ethan’s complete attention on Brenna. The jealousy bubbling inside her was impossible to ignore. She was right before Ethan, yet he didn’t even glance her way. What made Brenna so special? Wasn’t she just as beautiful, if not more so? Surely, Ethan’s judgment was flawed.