I clasped my hands behind my back, digging my nails into my skin until I bled. Jeffrey looked at me and continued, “Stop playing these childish games, Eleanor. Ives and I were the ones who funded the construction of these villas. We can give it to whoever we want. You’ve already taken more than enough. Remember, Rhianne is my real sister. She is the rightful Ms. Shaw and deserves to live a life our family can provide. Do you hear me?”
“Crystal clear.” I nodded meekly.
It was then that his gaze fell on the feast I had prepared. He sighed in annoyance. “I can’t believe I forgot it’s Rhianne’s birthday today. Eat up by yourself. I’m leaving now.”
So he did remember. My carefully composed thoughts unraveled completely.
If Jeffrey remembered, Ivor surely did, too.
Yet, they couldn’t care less. They only had Rhianne in their eyes. Even the house they had prepared for me now belonged to her.
I had always known my place. In fact, I felt guilty toward Rhianne.
But the truth was I had never wanted to fight her for anything—not this home, my brother, or Ivor.
As long as she wanted it, I was willing to give it all up.
I only had one small wish—to share a meal together. But now, it seemed even that was merely a dream.
It was about time for me to leave. Only then would they all be happy.
