<b>Chapter </b><b>30 </b>


    Carm was as collected as ever, though her expression had grown noticeably colder. “You’re still officially part of the Atwater family. The Murphys will show us at least a little respect, don’t you think?”


    Elissa’s fingers clenched tightly at her side. When she met Carm’s gaze, a flicker of confusion crossed her face.


    “If Matriarch Paige Murphy really cared about you, why did she sabotage your job at St. Jude’s Hospital back then?”


    Carm didn’t wait for an answer. “I’ve seen youe back from Murphy Manor more than once, barely able to walk straight.”


    Elissa froze, her entire body tensing. Her eyes drifted slowly toward Edna, who was hovering not far away.


    gaze darted away, guilt written all over her face.


    Edna’s gaze


    In that moment, everything clicked for Elissa. All those years she’d tried to put on a brave front–Carm had seen right through it. But clever people like Carm never call out the truth until the moment’s absolutely necessary.


    Elissa’s face went pale. She released her clenched fists and, almost out of spite, found herself pushing back. “How long is this ‘temporary‘ arrangement you mentioned supposed tost?”


    “I’ll arrange it as soon as possible.”


    “Five hundred thousand.”


    “What did you say?”


    Elissa, ignoring Carm’s shock, replied in a calm, even voice. “Both houses on Juniper Road. And five hundred thousand in cash.”


    She knew she was asking for the moon. But she said it anyway, because deep down, she hated being coerced or talked down to. If Carm had pleaded with her, brought up Old Mrs. Atwater’s failing health, she might’ve agreed without a second thought.


    But she loathed being made to feel like she owed everyone, like she was the one taking advantage–just as the Murphys always did. In their eyes, she was treated worse than the family dog, yet to outsiders, she was supposed to be endlessly grateful for the so–called “favor” of being raised by them.


    “Do you even hear yourself? How dare you be so ungrateful!”


    14:46


    what we discussed.”


    “Thank you, Mom.”


    Elissa got up to see her out. “And the divorce papers…?<b>” </b>


    <b>“</b>I’ll have someone bring them over when they’re ready.”


    Carm, still fuming, tossed the words over her shoulder and clicked out the door in her


    heels.


    Elissa let out a long breath of relief. When she turned around, she found Frank looking at her, confusion written on his face.


    “Divorce papers?”