Chapter 60
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Maxine stared at Valerie’s unusually cager expression. ‘You can’t stay mad at someone who’s trying so hard, she thought, her refusal dissolving before she could voice it.
But Jessica’s tearful eyes hardened Maxine’s resolve. “Not today, Valerie. I’m taking Jessica home. Take Brian home, and tell Sebastian exactly what happened today. Either way, Brian started it.”
With that, Maxine turned to leave with Jessica.
“Wait, Maxine!” Valerie hurried after them.
Jessica instantly buried her face in Maxine’s arms the moment he approached. Feeling the girl tremble, Maxine stepped back with a frown.
Valerie awkwardly retreated. “No offense! But Gabriel’s been searching everywhere for Ivanna’s daughter. He’s checked every orphanage in the city like he wants her gone.”
Maxine’s eyes widened. She instinctively covered Jessica’s ears, whispering sharply, “You know about Ivanna?”
Valerie pursed her lips, her voice dropping to a murmur. “Who doesn’t? You know Gabriel–rules don’t apply to him. No clue why he’s obsessed, but… watch your back.”
Maxine studied her. “You’re not warning me for my sake. You’re worried I’ll do something that hurts Brian and Sebastian, aren’t you?”
Valerie froze, and guilt flashed across her face.
“Relam not blaming you. It’s natural instinct.” Maxine paused. “Come by tonight. We’ll talk.”
ut another word, Maxine led Jessica away.
the car, Jessica finally seemed to relax slightly, though she still curled up in the backseat corner, silent.
Maxine’s heart ached, but she resisted the urge to say something, driving home in silence.
Back home, Jessica dashed to her room and closed the door.
After a long hesitation, Maxine knocked gently. “Sweetheart? Bedtime already? Let’s eat something first?”
Eventually, the door creaked open. Jessica shuffled out, clutching a pink stuffed rabbit, head bowed.
Maxine knelt to meet her gaze–those rabbit–red eyes stabbed her chest.
“I’m sorry, sweetheart,” Maxine whispered, hugging her. “I should’ve protected you better. Can you forgive me?”
Jessica shook her head violently. “It’s my fault. I’m… I’m scared. And weak.”
Maxine stared, stunned. “What?”
Tears spilled suddenly as Jessica locked eyes with her, voice trembling but fierce: “Auntie, Jessica isn’t a bastard. My mom and dad loved me. Bad people took them away.”
Jessica hiccupped. “I should’ve told that boy… but I was too scared.”
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Wed, 18
Chapter 61
Chapter 61
