Chapter 15.~. A mother's worst fear

Scarlet’s POV~

McKenzie's expression changed from curiosity to concern. Her brows creased slightly as she reflected on what I had said.

“Why do you want to compensate them?” She asked in a gentle tone, her voice laced with curiosity.

“They didn't exactly treat you with kindness. Why would you want to reward them for that?”

I gave her hand a gentle squeeze, trying to keep my smile from faltering. “I just want to show them that I've risen above their cruelty. I want to prove to myself that I'm not bitter, that I can let go, plus…”

I paused, nibbling at my lower lips with a thick silence enveloping us.

“Let's just see it as a way of settling them and closing a chapter in my life,”

McKenzie exhaled deeply, her shoulders sagging. Reaching for my cheeks, she gave it a gentle stroke and said, “I’m just worried that they might open old wounds and create more problems for you, my dear,”

Shaking my head, I countered politely, “No, granny. They won't. I just want to give them this last honor and let them know that I've moved on completely. I won't be bothered about what they think or say.”

McKenzie nodded, a mix of understanding and concern on her face.

Her smile returned and she gently pulled me closer and planted a kiss on my forehead. “I love the fact that you appreciate your roots. On the contrary, if they hadn't revealed that you were adopted, you wouldn't have had any clue that you're related to the Scott and I wouldn't have been able to find you as well.”

“I'm just glad things ended well. Although they had mean intentions towards you, I'm glad it turned out in your favor. I'll accept your decision, sweetie. If paying them makes you feel complete, I'll support you. You're strong and capable and I trust your judgement…”

With that McKenzie turned to one of the workers, her face etched with determination.

He walked towards her, his face firm. “Yes ma'am,” He replied humbly in a calm voice.

“Please, John..I need you to arrange for someone to deliver a package to the Harper’s residence. Ensure it is handled discreetly and professionally.”

“Alright, ma'am. I will do just that..”

After a bundle of dollar bills was kept in a bag, I took a pen and scribbled a brief message on a piece of paper.

[I want to extend a gesture of appreciation for your role in my life. Please accept this token of my gratitude.

Sincerely,

Scarlett.]

When I was done, I gently squeezed the paper in the bundle of money and tossed the pen in the hand of a maid.

“All done,” A smirk appeared on my lips as I spoke.

Crossing my arms, I watched as the delivery man took the bag in his hand.

Turning to face me, he asked, “Is there any other message you want to pass across to the Harpers?”

“No. Just ensure you greet them. Everything they need is there..”

After bidding McKenzie goodbye, I stepped out of the house along with my daughter. As I slid onto the passenger’s seat, I turned to the driver and told him how he could locate Leslie's house.

“Noted, ma'am,” He replied with a nod before starting the ignition, and pulled out of the driveway. As the car sped across the highway, Emily stared at the blur of buildings through the windshield.

Her face lit in excitement, her hair wafting in the wind. Turning to face me, she leaned closer and asked, “Mom, are we going to see Godmother?”

“Sure,” I replied, sliding my fingers into her tousled hair and gently massaged her scalp.

As we pulled up to the apartment complex, I glanced at the time on my phone – we'd been driving for an hour.

The driver drove off while we walked into the building, our eyes surveying the lobby's sleek marble floors and modern decor, the soft hum of the elevator in the background drawing our attention to the bank of lifts.

"Let's get Leslie's floor number so we can head up," I mumbled, my voice steady.

A text message popped on my screen and a smile curled at my lips.

Leslie walked down the stairs, fully dressed in a floral dress and shoes. She hadn't changed much except that she had added weight.

Her smile broadened and we enveloped each other in a warm, tight hug, the kind that felt like coming home.

Her daughter, Piper, was with her.. Her face lit once she sighted Emily. Both girls squealed with delight and ran towards each other, their little legs moving as fast as they could, arms open wide for a hug…

Ever since I left for New York, I've been keeping in touch with Leslie and her daughter virtually. Her daughter, Piper, is the same age as my daughter, Emily and it's the first time they'd be seeing each other in person.

“I'm so glad to see you, Leslie,” I whispered after we had broken the hug, our eyes locked in a warm, familiar gaze, the kind that spoke of shared memories and deep connection.

“I've missed you so much, Scarlet. You're glowing, Scarlett. It's surreal to see you like this – you're living your dream!” Leslie exclaimed, her face etched with excitement.

“Thanks, Les. You're looking great too. Life has been treating you well.”

“You know, I can't imagine how Ethan and Jasmine must feel right now. Everyone now knows that the scarlet they once looked down on is now a covered star, admired by millions and also the Heiress of an iconic family.. This is so amazing!”

“Yeah. I feel great about it but you know, there are ups and downs– I'm still managing and trying to stay fit and adapt to it. It's a new normal you know,”

I replied, but then, I realised the kids aren't anywhere near us.

“Wh- where could they be?” Leslie asked, her eyes going wide.

Together, we searched the entire place for them, restlessness gnawing at our chest.

Anxiety crawled up our sleeves, terror surrounding us like a vice.

“They were here just a moment ago.” I whispered, my breath coming out in short bursts.

“Let's check outside.” Leslie suggested and together we sprinted out into the bright sunlight, Piper and Emily racing ahead of us, their joyful sounds filing the air.

To our surprise, they dashed to the pavement but Piper was fast and suddenly stopped at the curb, but something unexpected happened.

A car whizzed by and knocked Emily to the ground.

My eyes went wide, my breath hitched in my throat.