Chapter 235 Pretense
As dawn broke, Victoria made her departure from the Regal Retreat.
---
Within the confines of a hospital room,
Madam and Arabella were having breakfast when a sigh escaped their lips. "I witnessed that wretch, Naomi, striking Vicky yesterday. The audacity to lay hands on our Harrington family's future matriarch!" Arabella exclaimed.
Madam responded, "It's because Victoria's status remains undisclosed. If people are kept in the dark, they may assume the Harrington family is indifferent towards their prospective daughter-in-law."
Arabella's frustration was palpable.
"Keeping this matter under wraps is no longer an option. Otherwise, Victoria will continue to endure such mistreatment," Madam declared with a grave tone.
Arabella queried, "So, what are you suggesting?"
"We'll pay a visit to their establishment later," Madam proposed.
"Are you feeling well enough for that?"
Madam huffed, "Wasn't it clear that I had no choice but to feign unconsciousness yesterday?"
She recalled the terror she felt, thinking her grandson was on the verge of sending her future granddaughter-in-law to prison.
Arabella was taken aback. Had yesterday been a ruse?
"Do you think I would faint so easily?" Madam retorted. Despite her age, her constitution was robust.
Arabella couldn't help but smile at the revelation. "So, that's how it was. You gave us quite a scare."
"Hmph, I don't know what you two are fretting over. Have you seen your father express any concern?"
Arabella was taken aback.
The previous night, when she had discussed Madam's condition with Maximus and Alexander's grandfather, he had assured her there was no cause for worry. She had initially thought her father-in-law was simply magnanimous. Now, she realized it was because they were a united front.
"Grandma."
A voice echoed from the doorway. Turning their heads, they were greeted by a radiant vision, akin to a sunflower in full bloom, which instantly brought smiles to their faces.
"Darling, come in."
"Grandma. Mom, you're here too."
"Yes, your grandma was complaining of hunger before the break of dawn. Why are you up so early?" Arabella inquired.
"I missed grandma," Victoria quickly found the perfect excuse.
"Oh, my precious darling."
Madam reached out to caress her face, and Victoria instinctively leaned into the touch. The swelling on her face was noticeable, and the imprints of her fingers were still visible. Madam's heart ached at the sight. "One day, the Montgomery family will be forced to kneel and beg your forgiveness."
"Grandmother, I don't want an apology from the Montgomery family. I would prefer not to see them at all," Victoria stated, sitting on the edge of the bed, her voice soft yet firm.
"You're too meek, that's why you're being targeted. We must show our strength when dealing with certain people," Arabella advised her.
Madam chimed in, "Your mother is correct, darling. Take a leaf out of her book. Her assertiveness is renowned throughout City A."
Victoria always found the exchanges between her mother-in-law and grandmother-in-law amusing. As expected, she looked up to see Arabella's resigned expression.
"Mom, are you complimenting me? It doesn't sound like it."
"If your daughter-in-law emulates you, isn't that a compliment?" Madam retorted.
Arabella could only respond with a helpless smile, then turned to Victoria, "The next time you encounter the Montgomery family, don't let them belittle you. Remember, you are part of the Harrington family. We don't tolerate bullying in City A."
"If she dares to disrespect you again, don't hesitate to retaliate. There's no need for courtesy with them," Madam added.
Victoria was touched and embraced her. "With you and Mom shielding me like yesterday, the Montgomery family won't dare to harass me again."
"Oh, where is Alexander? You left home so early. Didn't he accompany you?" Arabella suddenly remembered and asked her.
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