Chapter 4 The Party

"She is our family's little princess after all, and she deserves to be spoiled. Rachel, you can always count on us."

I knew I could always count on them.

For lunch, I ordered delivery for myself instead of cooking for Jonathan's family like I used to. When Jonathan's mother noticed there was no food on the table, she knocked hard against it, her expression dark enough to blanket an entire continent in shadow.

"You only got lunch for yourself? Where's mine?"

All she gained in response was a cool, calm glance. "We're splitting the bills, remember? If you're hungry, you can cook. Or you can order delivery, as I just demonstrated. You can't expect me to spend my own money on your needs."

My words were reasonable enough to shut her up. But she still muttered under her breath, acting as if I were some abusive daughter-in-law.

"I scrimped and saved all my life so my son could afford a wedding, but now his wife won't even get me food! I'm going to starve! God, you are cruel!"

I had heard that script a hundred times before, and I could recite it word for word with my eyes closed. If anyone was cruel, it was them.

I had asked for nothing from them for the wedding. Nothing except love. And for a while, I had truly believed that was what I had.

I had believed the man who promised to love only me would keep his word.

Then my eyes shifted to Jonathan. He was sitting on the couch, scrolling through his phone impatiently. I should not have entertained the thought of him helping me out.

"I ordered delivery for us. Guess we've spent our money on her for nothing. Good thing we're splitting our bills now. At least I cut my losses early," Jonathan said coldly.

The doorbell rang. Jonathan opened the door, and the courier handed him a file. He opened it up and fished an invitation painted in a golden sheen out.

Once he saw what was on the invitation, something that resembled glee etched itself upon his face.

"The Winsleys invited me and my family to their granddaughter's celebration. They're an extremely secretive aristocratic family. This invitation proves I've finally made it in Imperia!"

Jonathan's mother took the invitation from him. After reading it, she grinned as well.

But when she turned to look at me, her expression immediately soured. Harshly, she said, "You shouldn't go. You'll embarrass us at an event this sophisticated. Stay home and look after the baby. This isn't something you have the privilege of joining."

My family moved fast. I had not expected them to send an invitation this soon. Still, I only gave it a quick glance.

These people were like sewer rats who had stumbled upon a gold mine. I used to see them as the picture perfect family. Perhaps sewer rats could act too.

"We have to prepare the most expensive gift we can afford," Jonathan said, excitement flickering in his eyes. "If we can somehow enter the Winsleys' circle, I'll have real power."

These people were still dreaming about hooking up with my family. Jonathan's mother nodded eagerly at everything her son said.

"They're nothing like some people who only know how to waste my son's money! When Jonathan builds a connection with the Winsleys, I'll kick you and your brat out of this house."

I nodded. Yes, I would leave soon, but their dreams would also shatter the moment I departed.

…

The Winsleys' celebration was nothing less than a lavish banquet. My daughter was under the care of a group of infant care specialists. All I had to do was change into an expensive gown and receive our guests.

I was no longer the dull, ordinary housewife in faded clothes. I was no longer a woman whose entire world revolved around my daughter and endless chores.

Jonathan arrived on time, and along with him were his mother and Winona. The moment their eyes landed on me, their faces darkened.

They strode toward me without hesitation, and Jonathan's mother immediately raised her voice.

"I thought I told you to stay home! What are you doing here?"

Jonathan frowned, disdain filling his voice. "This place is far too good for someone like you. Don't embarrass me."

The moment they opened their mouths, they interrupted the conversation I was having with the other guests.