Chapter 39
Seated at the table, Julian cast a quiet glance at Edward’s rigid expression. That single look was enough for him to piece things together.
His brooding eyes darkened with an icy hue, and his lips curled ever so slightly in a subtle, unreadable smirk. ‘Looks like Rosalie must have dug something up. That would explain why she’s acting differently today compared to the rumors about her, he thought.
His gaze shifted back to Rosalic, observing her closely. Unexpectedly, she didn’t press the issue further. Instead, she reached for the chair Helena had just been sitting in. With deliberate care, she grabbed a napkin and wiped it down meticulously before finally sitting
Lifting her gaze. Rosalie met Helena’s eyes with a half–smile, making no effort to conceal the disdain and mockery in her expression. Her voice was cabin but laced with unmistakable derision.
“You’re only Dad’s stepdaughter. There’s a difference between that and being born into the family,” Rosalie said leisurely. “When you’re under someone else’s roof, you’d do well to keep your head down and know your place. Don’t ever forget where you actually stand. Got it?”
Her words were spoken lightly, her tone almost playful but every syllable landed on Helena’s heart like a crushing blow. The weight of them was suffocating, so sharp they seemed to slice through her very being. Helena’s chest tightened painfully, rage twisting inside her.
Helena thought bitterly. Why? Why do I have to keep hiding my identity and swallowing my pride after all these years? I’m Dad’s daughter too. So why does Rosalie get to do whatever she pleases while I don’t even have the right to fight back!
Her breathing turned uneven, her eyes burning with unspoken fury as she glared at Rosalie’s mocking smirk. I can’t accept this. And I won’t, Helena thought, her rage boiling over inside her. I refuse to let this go”
Her hands clutched at her chest, the searing pain spreading like wildfire. Her complexion paled, her body swaying precariously, barely able to remain standing.
