“That’s enough.” the old lady’s voice rang out, sharp and commanding.
Kate’s face shifted in an instant. She rolled her eyes where no one could see, but as soon as she turned toward the old lady, she was all smiles.
Leaning on her cane, the old lady made her way into the room, her steps slow but steady. Her eyes landed on Kate. “What were you just saying? This house is just as much Madeline’s as it is anyone’s. What do you mean, you can ‘arrange a room’ for her? I always thought you were so sweet and polite. Is this how you act when I’m not around, showing your true colors?”
Her words seemed to echo through the room. Everyone fell silent. Raine, always quick to read the room, hurried to help steady her grandmother. “Grandma, please, don’t be upset. Mom didn’t mean it like that.”
Grandma let out a heavy sigh, then shot Drew a look. “Drew, don’t forget where you came from. Think about how you got everything you have right now.”
Drew’s face darkened. He opened his mouth as if to say something, but then just pressed his lips together and looked away.
After giving both of them a piece of her mind, Grandma brushed off Raine’s arm.
Raine pouted, but didn’t say anything.
Grandma walked over to Madeline. Her eyes shone with tears, and her voice trembled. “Madeline…”
Her grandmother had aged over the past five years. She lowered her eyes, feeling a sting behind them. “Grandma, it’s been a long time. I’m sorry.”
Her grandmother squeezed her hand gently. “Don’t apologize. I know you’ve had your reasons.”
A flicker of bitterness crossed Madeline’s face.
“Since you’re back, you should stay here,” her grandmother said, her voice soft and full of hope. “This is your home, too.”

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