Chapter 14: Afternoon Tea
"I did it for your benefit. Why are you so angry?" Theresa defended her actions as she faced Damien's scolding. If only she weren't so desperate for an heir and if he weren't so resistant to the idea, they could have avoided this ugly situation.
"Thank you for your concern. However, I would like to ease your burden within this pack, as it seems overwhelming for you," Damien replied, raising his head to meet her gaze with an insincere smile.
Theresa felt a panic surge through her when she heard him mention 'easing her burden.' She dreaded what he was about to propose and retorted, "I am perfectly fine with my responsibilities. I never asked for any help."
"Temporarily, you will be stripped of your position as the mistress. If you can prove your worth, then it will be yours again," he stated firmly, his tone serious, showing no inclination to argue with her. She couldn't believe he would do such a thing to his own mother, regardless of her actions.
"I am your mother, Damien. You can't do this!" she protested, raising her voice, unable to accept his decision.
"I am doing this because you are my mother. Any other person would not escape punishment for such actions," he remained calm, but his eyes glowed with anger, and his fists were clenched. Theresa knew he wouldn't spare anyone who attempted such things, and he was being lenient because of their relationship.
Unable to argue her way out any longer, she turned her back to him and left his study room peacefully. He wanted her to prove her worth, and she would do just that. The position was always meant to be hers anyway.
Damien sighed as she left the room. She just wouldn't stop until he punished her, so he had no other choice. Now he had to deal with the elders, who suddenly demanded an heir without seeking his decision first.
A knock interrupted Damien's thoughts, and he left his desk to sit on the couch in the room, allowing the visitor to enter.