The Billionaire Ex-Wife and the Beggar He Became novel Chapter 156

As soon as she stepped inside, Sue saw Tiana barking orders at the three housekeepers, her tone sharp and bossy.

Felicity, feigning a gentle reproach, turned to Tiana with a playful look. "Tiana, these ladies work hard and deserve respect. Everyone's equal when it comes to honest work—you can't just lose your temper with the housekeepers, sweetheart."

The three housekeepers chimed in together, showering Felicity with praise. "You're so kind, ma'am, so understanding of us. Please, have a seat. With you here, the little princess will surely behave."

Sue found it almost comical. Felicity wasn't even married to Julian yet, hadn't officially joined the Nicholson family, but the staff already addressed her as 'ma'am' at every turn. Still, Sue was new here and knew her opinion didn't carry any weight, so she kept her thoughts to herself.

"Tiana, come here," Felicity called, her confidence unshakable. "Tell Miss Felly—have you missed her so much that you're acting out?"

She had always seen Tiana as her little admirer. Sometimes Felicity felt that she could do anything—say anything—and Tiana would find it charming.

But now, Tiana clung to Sue's sleeve, clearly reluctant to go to Felicity.

Felicity faltered for a moment.

Sue, being the adult, leaned down and whispered in Tiana's ear, "Go on—she's your new mom now."

Children didn't understand the complexities of the adult world. Felicity would never be like Winona, who loved Tiana without condition or limit. Sue knew that if Tiana could accept Felicity, she might get some affection; but if she resisted, she could only imagine how Felicity would treat her in the years to come.

Sue realized that Winona had been right. Since there was no way to win custody, and Tiana had to stay with the Nicholsons, the best thing for the girl was to help her accept her new stepmother. That way, Tiana might at least find a sense of safety and love.

After Sue's gentle prompting, Tiana ran to Felicity and threw her arms around her. "Miss Felly, I missed you! You haven't visited me in so long."

"You're truly a wonderful person, ma'am." The three housekeepers chorused their flattery, all smiles.

Tiana curled up beside Felicity, quiet and obedient.

"Where's your father? Is he home from work yet?" Felicity asked.

"Daddy… Daddy's home!" Tiana spotted Julian at the door, broke free from Felicity's arms, and ran to greet him as he stepped inside.

Julian's feelings were complicated. Only when he looked at Tiana did he see traces of Winona in her face—a bittersweet reminder that Tiana was their child. For the first time, he truly felt the weight of that bond.

He scooped Tiana up and, glancing at Felicity, his voice was stiff and distant. "What are you doing here?"