Chapter 117: Freedom
Rain’s cheeks flushed a deep shade of pink as she glanced at Alexander, unable to suppress the thought that she truly had hit the jackpot with him. His handsome face and the way he carried himself only made her more certain of her fortune.
She chuckled softly, hoping to mask her blushing. "Don’t worry, Aunt," she said, her voice warm and reassuring. "He’s a good man. We can trust him completely—he knows everything about me."
There was a weight to her words, a quiet confidence she hadn’t felt in years. It was more than just admiration for Alexander’s looks; it was the sense of security and trust she had longed for, now finally within her grasp.
Melanie nodded, murmuring with relief, "That’s good to hear."
Rain’s face brightened as she suddenly remembered the treats she’d brought. "Oh, and guess what, Aunt? I’ve learned to cook and bake! I brought you some samples, so you have to try them and let me know what you think." She beamed, pulling her aunt toward a chair and setting the apple pie and cookies on the small table in front of her.
Aunt Melanie’s room felt like a small, self-contained apartment. It had a mini-kitchen, a bitter reminder that her father hadn’t remodelled it for her aunt’s convenience but rather as a way to confine her, ensuring she had everything whenever they would lock her up. Rain suppressed the familiar surge of anger that thought always brought.
Aunt Melanie took a seat and glanced toward Alexander, who was still standing by the door. "Shouldn’t you let him sit down instead of guarding the door like a bodyguard?" she commented with a knowing smile.
Rain sighed. "Well, Dina and I just had a... heated exchange before I came here. You know how she is when she’s angry."
Before Melanie could respond, Alexander chimed in, his voice calm but thoughtful. "I should probably head downstairs and give you two some privacy. Besides, your father and stepmother are waiting. I believe they want to have a private talk with me."