Chapter 4

The dining room fell into a dead silence, broken by Audrey's quick, uneven breaths. "What did you just say?"

She shook her head in disappointment. "You don't know how to be grateful at all! All these years of effort were for nothing!"

Freya immediately stepped forward to steady her, gently patting her back to soothe her breathing. "Don't get too worked up, Mom."

She frowned and turned to me. "Ella, how could you say that to Mom? She's been working herself to exhaustion for you all these years, to the point that her health deteriorated!

"The welcome-home party is just to let everyone know that you're the true Robinson heiress! Why can't you appreciate the kind thing she's doing for you?"

Freya's words came out so sharp and righteous.

By then, Audrey's breathing had gradually calmed as she held Freya's hand with obvious affection. After taking a few deep breaths, she looked at me again.

"What did they even do to you? What could they possibly have done? I've been taking care of everything behind-the-scenes all these years. How much suffering could you have gone through?

"The party is set for tomorrow. Before that, I want you to reflect on yourself! You've really disappointed me this time, Ella!"

With that, she had Freya help her back to her room.

I lowered my head, staring at the floor. Then, I laughed, even doubling over from it.

…

The next day, Robinson Estate was bustling with activity. From the family's old acquaintances to the group of undeserving people who received 100 thousand dollars, everyone had arrived.

Richard, the bully who had broken my leg, stood there in an ill-fitting suit, looking smug. "100 thousand dollars, huh? You really made it big, Salmonella. Let's keep in touch, okay?"

The others who had tormented me for years chimed in.

"Exactly. Didn't expect your family to be this rich. Well, we won't ask for much. Just wire us ten thousand dollars each month."

"And if you don't, you're asking for it."

They burst into laughter.

I clenched my fists. I didn't want to be afraid, but I couldn't quite control the fear that was already etched into my bones.

"Ella." Audrey appeared. She frowned at me. "Hey, why do you look so pale?"

I shook my head, and she didn't press further. "This is good. They're all people who helped you. You should talk to them more. The party starts at noon sharp. Be ready downstairs then."

The group exchanged glances and left with smirks. Audrey then patted my shoulder. "Be good."

I looked at her and forced a smile. "Alright."

She nodded in satisfaction and walked away. I returned to my room.

Honestly, I was exhausted. Ever since I woke up that morning, I had felt unbearably exhausted. I had already coughed up blood thrice.

I lay on the bed, staring at the ceiling. Time passed slowly.

From downstairs, I could hear the cheerful noise of people talking and laughing. My breathing grew weaker, my vision blurred, and even my body felt lighter.

I couldn't push through it anymore. Perhaps a quick nap would help, I thought. Just a quick nap…

…

Downstairs, the clock finally pointed to 12. Audrey held the microphone. "Everyone, I'm so happy to have you all here to celebrate the return of my daughter, Ella! Now, let's all welcome her with a round of applause!"

Applause broke out across the hall.

Everyone turned toward the spiral staircase, but no one appeared even after a long wait. They began exchanging awkward glances, and the atmosphere slowly turned uncomfortable.

Audrey frowned. Her expression darkened briefly before she quickly composed herself. "Oh, silly me! I forgot that Ella wanted me to walk her down the stairs!"

She set the microphone down and headed toward my room.