Bella’s body couldn’t help but mission
stiffen slightly. She looked at her husband Lincoln, hoping he would say something to help her decline this difficult
But Lincoln just meekly lowered his head, staring at the floor. “Mom entrusts you with such an important task. Aren’t you going to accept it right away?”
Bella suppressed the chill inside and forced a smile that looked more like a grimace, her face turning a bit pale. I got it, Ruth.”
Bella pinched Lincoln hard in frustration. Madeline alone could outmatch all of the members of Thomas‘ family combined. In the past, Vanessa had always gotten her way because of her parents‘ indulgence and never suffered any losses. But she got severely beaten up by Madeline. But her usually overprotective parents didn’t even dare to utter a word when they returned home.
Bella quickly went to inquire about Madeline’s background. Madeline had Caleb as her powerful backing. Caleb was the kind of man people couldn’t afford to mess with. Being in the entertainment industry, Bella knew full well that there were plenty of people in the criminal and law- abiding worlds who were not to mess with. With their enormous strength and influence, those underworld figures in particular could still prosper in society. They were like dragons hiding in the depths; anyone who got their attention might be in danger. Bella was very irritated right now Nobody would dare provoke Madeline, not even the sharp–witted and cunning Sharon. Being sent to discipline her made Bella very afraid.
Ruth’s fierce instructions made their minds racing. Harley’s family was sent to discipline them; Henry’s family was responsible for their work, and Jacob’s family was tasked with looking after Madeline. Ruth nodded with satisfaction, feeling that she truly was a master strategist. Such little things were best left to their subordinates to handle. “It’s been years since Thomas last saw you. Be kind and friendly when you meet him later. Don’t scare him off,” she said.
Yvette’s smile was shallow, she thought to herself that Ruth was the intimidating one.
Ruth turned to Sharon, who was sitting upright and poised. “Sharon, you have always been meticulous. You’ll go to help them settle in.”
Sharon could only manage a bitter smile, thinking, ‘Does Ruth know what she is doing? I’ve seriously offended Thomas‘ family in the past. I don’t know what’s waiting for me if I face Madeline” “Ruth, won’t they be living with us here?”
“Of course not,” Ruth said with a disdainful look on her face. “They come
me from a small town Acocester. They’re likely to bring in all sorts of bad habits since they haven’t been taught proper manners. She was worried that if they moved back in, they might corrupt the family’s traditions and decorum. But most importantly, she just didn’t like them and didn’t want to see their faces every morning and night. She wanted to live a long and healthy life.
As they were talking, the car had already pulled up to the grand entrance of the house.
Vanessa was the first to get out, eager to not spend another moment with them.
The second was Layla, taking in the newly paved driveway, the impressive mansion gate, and the two security guards standing at the entrance, who seemed to be highly professional.
Views of the exquisite imposing gate.
interior landscaping, the exquisitely carved beams and rafters, and the peaceful courtyard could be seen through the
Layla exclaimed, “Thomas is truly from a wealthy family; it’s nothing like our former commercial villa. The pine tree inside appears to be quite old and valuable.”
Thomas wasn’t in a good mood. “No matter how grand this place is, it’s not our home. Why do you always think about these trivial things! These things don’t matter once we get to live a comfortable life. We don’t need to open up to them.”
Layla, however, was in high spirits. She adjusted her clothes and used her phone to check her makeup to make sure she looked presentable.
Their five sons also got out of the car. The family of seven followed Vanessa as they entered the Larson residence.
As soon as they entered. Vanessa instructed the security guards, Take a good look. These are my uncle Thomas, his wife, and their sons. If they visit again in the future, don’t treat them like strangers and try to drive them away although they may not look like us. Remember this”
Vanessa’s eyes gleamed with pride. “Uncle Thomas, it’s been a while since you’ve been back. I’m afraid you’ve forgotten how strict our family rules are. But that’s okay, you’ll get used to it again.”
Something uneasy settled in Thomas
Layla’s smile stiffened, but she forced herself to ignore the unease. Better days were ahead, so she could bear this. But the feeling of oppression was all too real as soon as they stepped into the hall and saw a scene akin to a trial. Layla consoled herself inwardly. “That’s just the nature of large families. A wealthy household has many members, lots of rules, and a generally cold and serious attitude. Everything is as is should be. They are elite, after all. It’s naturally different from ordinary families.”
Rith, seeing them standing stiffly in the hall, let out a cold laugh. “Hah, are you all dead! Don’t you know how to greet?”
the
11:53 AM
لا
Chapter 240
‘Thomas‘ expression darkened. Ruth was putting airs to intimidate them.
Layla hurriedly said, “Ruth and you guys, we rushed back without preparing any gifts for you. I hope you don’t mind.”
Layla was a bit nervous. Although they weren’t planning to forego the gifts, they were actually severely short on cash. Cheap items wouldn’t cut it anyway, they would just make people laugh. The somewhat unfriendly glances from everyone caused her to feel uneasy. But her family was supposed to come back. They were all blood–related to these people. She found it incomprehensible that they were unhappy with them and even gave them the cold shoulder. “What is this all about? Layla was grumbling inwardly, quite discontented.
“Layla” Tiana grinned. That’s not how people greet each other. I understand you come from a modest background. It appears that I will need to spend some time teaching you manners, based on your current demeanor. But I come from a well–to–do family. I didn’t marry into this family to help you out, so I won’t be very patient with you,”
Tiana smirked, her well–maintained, elegant face carrying a hint of mockery. “You should thoroughly study the rules. Don’t waste my
time”
Now, Layla could no longer keep a straight face. They had returned to inherit the family business, not to be mocked and taught manners. “Tiana, what do you mean by that? We’re all family. Is it necessary to be so mean?”
Tiana sneered, “I heard you didn’t treat your own daughter like family when you found her after she went missing for so long. Why are you talking to me about being one family now! How strange.
