This absurd speech—spoken by the woman who had broken another’s marriage yet cast herself as the victim—fell on Adrian’s ears like some grand declaration.His eyes gleamed with deeper pleasure and approval,clearly delighted by Vanessa’s“independence”and“boldness.”
He nodded again and again,coaxing her:
“Alright,alright,Vanessa’s right.This is my fault.I shouldn’t have let her offend your eyes.”
Without so much as glancing at Clara,he picked up the phone.
“Security,come in.Please‘escort’Mrs.Cole out.”
Clara stared at him in disbelief,as though seeing the man for the first time.For this new lover,he not only allowed her to torment the pet Clara loved like family—he now meant to drive out his lawful wife.
Two security guards entered quickly,expressionless,moving toward Clara.
“Wait—”Clara struggled,her eyes locked on Snowball,still crying out in terror above.“My cat.Give Snowball back to me!”
“Cat?”Vanessa’s eyes glinted with malice.She cut in first,smiling slyly.
“That cat was bought by Adrian.All its food and care came from his money.So of course it’s his.Why should we give it to you?”
Vanessa’s gaze swept over Clara,lingering on her dress and the bag in her hand.Her smile grew smug.