LOGINSeveral packets of seasoning slipped from Althea’s hands, just moments before she could place them into her shopping cart. Whether the other shopper hadn’t been paying attention, or Althea herself had stepped into the way, these things happened all the time.“It’s alright. Don’t worry,” Althea said,
When Riana finally took her leave, the tension still hung thick in the air. Erick escorted her to the car without saying much. But once inside, Riana spoke at last.“Erick… keep a closer watch on Selena and Eli. Especially Selena. Everything she does—who she meets, how she moves—her behavior is beco
Selena’s smile widened. “Of course. Why wouldn’t it be?” She stepped aside slightly. “Forgive me for interrupting so much. I just felt you should know what really happened.”Riana moved farther into the room, largely ignoring Selena’s words. Her gaze went straight to Eli. “How are you, sweetheart?”
“Nothing fatal,” the caller said flatly. “Just enough to make Riana rush over and make sure the child is fine. After that, you can build a bond. Reset your brilliant plan. Become the only person who truly cares about Eli—and earn her trust.”Selena let the words settle. The kitchen remained quiet; S
The GreenVilla sky had already turned pitch-black by the time the car that brought them home pulled up at the apartment lobby. Selena stepped out immediately, saying nothing. Eli followed her, but before fully leaving the car, she paused to offer a quiet word of thanks.Mr. Smith gave a small nod an
Riana nodded quickly. “Selena’s been acting beyond our expectations these past few days.” She looked around at each family member in the room. “It’s as if she’s already decided—confirmed, even—that she truly belongs to this family.”“What has she done, Mom?” Cale asked.“Yesterday afternoon, she cam







