FROM THE ROCK BOTTOM TO THE HIGH SOCIETY

tory older man, whose intentions were anything but innocent. When the man became distracted, Belinda saw her chance. Grabbing her stiletto

crime. They drugged Valerie and placed her at the scene, framing her for the murder. The plan was flawl

stoking the fire of her resentment. So when Belinda appeared unannounced at he

City. People here... they're not exactly the cream of the crop. Did you know you can spend a night with someo

you've come all this way just to brag a

e stilled, her rage turning into a sly, calculating smile. "I almost lost my temper there. But listen, Valerie-I'm getting mar

ce urgent. "My mother's pictures? Don'

was cool, indif

ow afte

t of the trash. They're cluttering up my house," Belinda said, her voice dri

the constant stress of her first trimester was wearing her thin. Tomorrow, she had an appoi

ing for her ultrasound. As she was about to be called, her ph

and unyielding as ever. "

her, calculating the wait time. "I'll

, and the line went de

laying her by another half-hour. When she finally made it to Clara's ward, she could hea

esterday," Victor said, trying to calm

ficate! I want her here!" Cla

oom. As he did, he locked eyes with Va

holding a small bag. "Aunt Clara, I'm so sorry for being late. I

smiled. "You remembered that

id softly, handing her

es bright with joy. "With you by Victo

ears. "Please don't say that, Mom.

ed Victor once more, her voice a little unsteady.

to be here in an hour and a half. You took three. If you ever ma

he nodded quickly, forcing a tight, bitter smile. "I understand. I won't ask ag

emotion. "Everything promised

ed, her heart heavy with de

oor, Clara's fragile voic

back to her si

nd-she cared for me when I couldn't care for myself. She's loyal and righteous in ways no one else has been. With everythi

d as his mother's words too

alling Aunt Quinton to check if Valerie is staying at your hous

ion flared, his p

d, his phone rang. He

sweetness. "Victor, darling, I was hoping you could

replied curtly, ending the c

sand needles, making her feel humiliated, embarrassed, and irritable. She

da's heart sank, the weight of his