Ivy had no proof to convince the interviewers of her innocence â an innocence that seemed to be perpetually on trial.
After a brief huddle, the hiring managers offered Ivy an apologetic âSorry, but we canât offer you the position.â
As much as she had braced herself for disappointment, the rejection still stung. With the weight of regret pressing down on her, Ivy left the office, her steps heavy with dejection.
She had thought that severing ties with her family with a three-million-dollar settlement would finally free her from their toxic grasp. But Clara, ever the spiteful half-sister, seemed determined to make Ivyâs life a misery. It wasnât enough that Ivy was forced to strike out on her own; Clara seemed determined to sabotage even the smallest chance at independence.
Was this really her fate?
âWell, well, look who couldnât land a job. What a pity, dear sister,â Claraâs voice dripped with mockery as she caught up to Ivy outside the Harris Groupâs imposing building. âNeed your sis to find you a gig as a stagehand or something? Keep you off the streets?â
Ivy was already at her breaking point, and Claraâs taunting was like a match to kindling. âClara, youâd do well to stay out of my sight!â she snapped, barely containing the storm brewing inside her. She didnât want to cause a scene, not here on the companyâs doorstep.
Hatred had replaced whatever affection Ivy might have once held for Clara, who had stolen all of her motherâs love and relentlessly picked on her, making her life unbearable.
She had endured so much, conceded so much, yet still, Clara persisted.
âAs long as Iâm around, Iâll never let you have a momentâs peace,â Clara sneered, her eyes glinting with arrogance. âYou only have yourself to blame. If it werenât for your mother, the gold-digger, marrying my father and having you, I would have been the Dunhill familyâs only precious daughter!â
Ivy couldnât believe Claraâs cruelty extended even to her mother. âYou hate my mom? After everything sheâs done for you? She always took your side, and never once wronged you!â
Clara scoffed. âGood thing your mom was smart enough to play housemaid and save us the expense of hiring one. Otherwise, Iâd have convinced Dad to throw both you and her out a long time ago.â
Ivyâs patience had reached its limit. âEnough, Clara! One more word and youâll regret it,â she warned.
âOh, are you threatening me now? Iâd love to see you try,â Clara taunted, raising her hand to slap Ivy.
But Ivy was ready. She caught Claraâs wrist and, in a swift motion, returned the favor with a slap of her own.
Clara was all bark and no bite. For all her bluster, she lacked any real strength.
âIvy! How dare you! You hit me. I have to be on set soon!â Claraâs outrage was palpable as she lunged at lvy, grabbing her hair in a fit of rage.