Chapter 101: Mara Is Not Your Mother
Lottie stumbled through the door, her face etched with exhaustion. Days of relentless visits to the jail had taken a toll on her, physically and emotionally. She had spent countless hours pleading with officials, desperately trying to secure Jeff’s release to no avail.
As she entered the living room, the first thing she saw was Brooke, lounging on the couch, engrossed in a magazine. Her heart sank. Her daughter had been oblivious to the turmoil that had engulfed their family. Even Lyse had maintained a cold front, refusing to intervene or even visit Jeff and show a bit of sympathy.
"Brooke," Lottie said, her voice barely a whisper. "Have you heard from your father?"
Brooke looked up, her expression indifferent then she shrugged. "No, not really," she replied, her tone dismissive. "Why? Is something wrong?"
Lottie’s patience snapped. "Something is very wrong, Brooke! Your father has been in jail, and he has not been doing well. You could at least show some concern for him and visit him!"
"And let everyone see that I am his daughter?" Brooke shrieked angrily. "No way Lottie, I have already lost so much. I can’t afford to lose any more."
"I am not going to waste my time on him and I would advise you to do the same too," Brooke continued. "After all, you have your own life to live."
Brooke’s face hardened. "I am not responsible for his actions, Mom. He is the one who got himself into this mess, it has nothing to do with me."
Lottie was stunned. "You are blaming him? He is your father, Brooke! He needs your support, your love, our love."