Chapter 5

"Oh, she’s healthy as a horse! Strong as an ox!"

Richard slapped his knee, laughing loudly.

"Don't mind her pale face today—she’s just looking for drama. She went to the clinic for some unnecessary checkup and now she's acting sick.”

“She does all the heavy lifting around here, never complains!"

Tyler picked up a piece of lobster and put it on Amber's plate.

"Exactly, Mrs. Sterling. My mom loves keeping busy. She gets restless if she isn't working. When Amber has the baby, my mom will handle everything. Amber won't have to lift a finger."

Amber leaned against Tyler’s shoulder, giggling. "Tyler, I don't want to lose my figure after the baby. I'll need time for pilates."

"Of course. Mom will watch the baby while you go to your classes."

They raised their glasses, the picture of a perfect, happy family.

My mom stood by the table, holding the dishcloth, her fingers trembling.

She looked at Richard, then at Tyler.

A table full of people, and not a single one asked her if she was tired, or if she was okay.

In this house, she wasn't even allowed to be sick.

I walked over and snatched the dishcloth from her hand.

"Mom, go sit on the couch."

My mom gasped, instinctively trying to grab the cloth back. "Chloe, stop. There's still soup in the kitchen, let me get it..."

"I said, go sit down!"

I yelled, my voice ringing through the open-concept living room.

Mrs. Sterling paused her fork, looking me up and down.

"Your sister has quite a temper, Tyler. I hope Amber won't have to deal with this kind of attitude after they're married?"

Tyler’s face darkened. He stood up, pointing a finger at me.

"Chloe, what is wrong with you?! Amber’s parents are here. Learn some manners!"

Richard slammed his fist on the table, spilling the wine.

"Go to your room! No one asked for your input!"

I looked at them. Then, I reached out and grabbed the bottle of expensive Macallan Scotch Richard had bought to show off.

I gripped it by the neck, swung my arm, and smashed it.

Smash!

The bottle shattered violently against the platter in front of Tyler, sending shards of glass, alcohol, and lobster shell flying across the table.