Chapter 4 - The Cruel Daughter-in-Law
Before Adam could formulate a lie to dig himself out of the catastrophic hole, Vanessa pushed her way through the lobby and approached the hostess desk.
The woman in her late thirties was draped in expensive silk and diamonds, radiating toxic, dismissive arrogance. She saw Margaret standing there holding the document and immediately rolled her eyes, letting out a loud, dramatic sigh.
"Adam, for heaven's sake, just pay the bill," Vanessa snapped, completely ignoring Margaret's presence. She turned her vicious glare toward the young restaurant manager. "My parents are waiting. We reserved the private terrace room. Take us there immediately."
Sofia stood her ground, her hands clasped tightly in front of her. "I'm sorry, ma'am, but the account authorizing that room has just been frozen."
Vanessa’s head snapped toward Margaret. She looked the elegant widow up and down with absolute, unfiltered disgust.
"Are you serious right now, Margaret?" Vanessa sneered, speaking to the 68-year-old woman as if she were a misbehaving toddler. "You’re going to ruin Mother’s Day because of a piece of paper? You have more money than God. You sit in that massive empty house all day doing absolutely nothing. The least you can do is let Adam treat my family to a decent meal."
Margaret didn't flinch. Her natural breathing remained completely steady. "A decent meal that you are stealing from my name, Vanessa."
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Vanessa scoffed loudly, ensuring the nearby guests heard her. "Oh, please. You're just a confused old woman hoarding your late husband's wealth. If you're going to throw a tantrum, go home. We have a party to host."
👉 Vanessa thought she could publicly humiliate her mother-in-law, but the arrival of the General Manager was about to shatter her illusion.
