Chapter 26
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Claudia smirked inwardly, ‘Once Julian sees just how rude and uncultured that little brat Rosalie truly is, and then compares her to me, a gentle, kindhearted stepmother who never holds grudges, he’ll despise her even more.
And then there’s Helena. My daughter, my delicate, fragile flower. She’s the picture of grace, effortlessly evoking sympathy. And with a kind, sensible mother like me by her side, how could Julian not choose Helena instead?‘
Feeling pleased with her plan, Claudia was convinced she was killing multiple birds with one stone.
With her mind made up, she threw herself even further into the act, perfectly portraying the role of a selfless stepmother willing to let herself and her daughter endure endless humiliation to protect her stepdaughter’s reputation.
Edward’s face darkened with frustration as he snapped, “Claudia, stop indulging her. The more you tolerate her behavior, the more insufferable she becomes.
“It’s bad enough that she acts like this in our own home, but now she’s married into the Galloway family. She represents them now, and if she keeps carrying on like this in public, she won’t just be embarrassing herself–she’ll be disgracing the entire Galloway family.”
Rosalie let out a cold chuckle, arching a brow as she cast Edward a sidelong glance.
She mused, ‘What a hefty accusation to throw at me. I’d hate to disappoint him. But I wonder how he will keep up this act once he finds out I’m about to divorce Julian.
‘For years, I never realized my dear father was such a brilliant actor. Honestly, it’s a tragedy that the entertainment industry never claimed him. He could’ve won an award or two.‘
Rosalie picked up the freshly brewed coffee the maid had placed before her, taking an unhurried sip as she watched Edward’s performance with quiet amusement. The rich, velvety aroma lingered on her tongue, a stark contrast to the ridiculous display unfolding before her.
Julian flicked his gaze toward Rosalie, his expression unreadable. Then, shifting his gaze to the overly dramatic Edward and Claudia, he smirked slightly but made no move to interrupt their little act.
“Edward, just let it go. We’re all family here, and Rosalie is still young. There’s no need to hold it against her,” Claudia said with a look of feigned helplessness, casting a seemingly worried glance at Rosalie.
15:13 Mon, 3 Mar
Chapter 27
Chapter 27
