When fate plays its hand

Chapter 0824

+25 BONUS

Mindy smiled and said, “Preparing some fruit isn’t much trouble–it’ll be done in no time.

She also considered that the two chefs had already returned to their quarters for the holiday, and it wouldn’t hurt to let them rest for a bit. With that, she headed toward the

kitchen.

Fiona watched her daughter’s figure disappear, her gaze lingering with a smile that she couldn’t bear to shift away.

After the treatment period, with Fiona’s active cooperation, her vision had improved significantly. While reading smaller text or printed books still required effort, she could now comfortably watch television and recognize faces in everyday life.

She felt immense gratitude for not giving up on treatment back then. Otherwise…

Now, she thought she could never get enough of looking at Mindy.

“Mom, it’s been getting colder lately. Didn’t you always say you liked the southern climate? I know a place in Jonford that’s perfect for escaping the cold. After Easter festivity’s over, how about I take you and Dad there for a while?”

Seeing that Mindy had left, Nelly’s eyes lit up as she slid closer to Fiona with a smile.

But the moment she leaned in, Fiona’s smile faded slightly. “No need. Staying at home is just fine. If your dad and I want to go somewhere, we’ll arrange it ourselves. You don’t need to worry about it.”

“Yes, I know you and Dad are perfectly capable of making arrangements,” Nelly replied, forcing a laugh. “But can’t I show some love as well as your daughter?“.

“We’re not planning any long trips right now,” Fiona said, her tone more direct now. It was as if to leave no room for misunderstanding. She simply didn’t want to go.

“Why?” Nelly’s grip tightened. “Is it because Min is back?”

Throughout dinner, Nelly had kept a smile on her face, but inside, the sight of Aren and Fiona doting on Mindy–going out of their way for her–had ignited a simmering resentment. Even Lionel, an outsider, seemed to receive better treatment than her.

Nelly had tried to suppress her anger in front of everyone, but now it was spilling over. A bitter laugh escaped her. “Mom, I’ve never understood.

“Why do you hate me so much? Is it because I was the one who came back after Min and I went missing? Would you have been happier if I had disappeared with her too? Is that what you wanted?

+25 BONUS

Chapter 0824

“Now that she’s back, I thought maybe you’d let go of your resentment and finally accep me. But no–you’re still the same. What did I ever do wrong to deserve this?” Her voice cracked, carrying the faintest sob.

It had always been this way. Her parents had showered her sister with unconditional love, leaving her to feel like an afterthought. Why was Mindy their cherished treasure while she was treated like something disposable?

Fiona stared into Nelly’s eyes, her tone cold and deliberate. “You mean to tell me you don’t know what you did wrong? Ha…”

Just then, Mindy emerged from the kitchen, carrying a fruit platter. She invited Nelly and

Fiona to share some.

However, before she could say much, Nelly interjected, “Min, come with me for a second. I brought a lot of dried seafood and other goods this time. Let me show you how to store them properly.”

Fiona cut in with a disapproving tone, “The housekeepers can handle that. Min, you don’t

need to bother.”

Once again, Nelly was dismissed by Fiona, and her expression darkened further. Mindy, however, smiled. “With this weather, improper storage can easily lead to mold or spoilage. I’d better take a look.”

Fiona frowned but didn’t stop her this time. While suppressing her frustration, Nelly led Mindy to the garden.

The moment they stepped outside, a quiet settled over the space. For the first time in years, the two sisters were alone, standing face to face.

Mindy knew Nelly had something to say. And she had things she wanted to say too.

“Go ahead, Nelly,” Mindy said calmly. “Just say whatever you want to say.”