Chapter 386



It became clear to Charlee that Melinda was missing the point entirely. Losing her patience, she withdrew her hand abruptly.

“Let her out!” Charlee commanded.

At this, Melinda lifted her chin defiantly, her eyes glinting with scorn as she looked at Kallie. However, she hadn’t anticipated the bodyguards actually stepping forward to escort her out.

Melinda’s confidence vanished as she stammered in confusion, “Mrs… Charlee, what are you doing? Is there some misunderstanding? Wasn’t my gift to your liking? That can’t be right, I invested a great deal in it!”

Charlee’s demeanor remained stern, causing Melinda to rethink the situation with her naive understanding.

Melinda shouted at Charlee, “You can’t do this to me! I spent a fortune on the gift I gave you. You accepted it, and now you turn against me?”

In truth, Melinda felt a twinge of regret as soon as she said it, but she felt she had no other option.

Confusion clouded Melinda’s thoughts. She couldn’t fathom what had upset Charlee. The idea of reclaiming the painting crossed her mind—selling it someday could bring in some money.

Now, Melinda found herself financially dependent on Stan. Any excessive spending meant writing an IOU. Melinda once hoped for a better life after outcasting Jake, but her current situation was far grimmer than her past.

Charlee, trembling with rage, pointed at Melinda and stuttered, “You… You…” She struggled for breath, overwhelmed by Melinda’s shamelessness.

Joanna, seeing her mother’s distress, quickly steadied her and snapped, “Get her out of here, now! And give her painting back.”

Melinda was harshly dragged out before everyone. Now that the scene was over, Kallie decided to bring an upset Sophie home for a good rest. Kallie bid Charlee farewell.

Unexpectedly, Charlee pulled her aside.

“Good girl,” Charlee began, smiling warmly. “Are you surprised I invited you here? After all, you had no prior ties to the Martel family. Actually, it was all for my daughter.”

Kallie, puzzled, asked, “Mrs. Martel, what do you mean by that?”

Charlee sighed, seeming to struggle with her words before she continued with a gentle smile. “Never mind. My sister was rather rude today. Please accept my apology on her behalf. I hope you aren’t too upset.”

Kallie signaled her understanding. Evelyn had indeed been quite harsh. Yet, Kallie understood that the real issue lay with Melinda and Zuri.

Switching topics, Kallie smiled and said, “Mrs. Martel, I hope you enjoyed the birthday present I chose for you.”

Charlee nodded with satisfaction. “I did. Yours was my favorite gift.”

Kallie’s present wasn’t extravagant. She had carved a crane symbolizing longevity—a piece both delicate and significant, yet not costly.

Liza once thought the present could seem a bit shabby. Yet, Kallie knew better. Charlee, far from an ordinary woman, required a unique approach to deal with. Charlee had dedicated herself to her role, and all she required in return was sincerity.

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