Chapter 239: The Darkest Secrets
At Lancaster Ancestral Mansion
Melanie bit her inner cheek as she walked into the living room where her brother, Tim, and Sylvia were already waiting. The moment Tim spotted her, he stood up and hugged her. "You’re looking great," he said, pulling back to look at her. "I guess Rain is right... you should stay here with her."
He held her gaze for a moment and added, "I’m really sorry, Melanie. I haven’t been much of a brother over the years. I hope you can forgive me and give me a chance."
Melanie let out a deep sigh, her expression unreadable as she noticed the gifts they’d brought. "Remembering her birthday for the first time, I see," she muttered wryly, the disbelief evident in her tone. Ever since Rain had become Mrs. Lancaster, Tim had been relentless, trying to use Melanie to connect with her.
Tim ignored her subtle mocking and smiled as he gently caressed her cheek. "I’ll keep my promise and give you your freedom, Melanie," he said softly. "But I’d appreciate it if you’d come by once in a while. It’s still your home. Our parents left it to us."
Melanie’s expression hardened. "I’ll come back, but only to pick up the rest of my things. I don’t know what you’re up to, Tim, but know this, neither Rain nor I will fall for your games," she replied firmly. "If you want to see or speak to Rain, reach out to her directly. Don’t try to use me as your bridge."
Tim sighed heavily, his expression softening. "I know, Melanie. Rain’s always been strong. I’ll keep reaching out to her, hoping she’ll understand how much I regret not acknowledging her sooner, and how I allowed Sylvia and Dina to mistreat her. I won’t let them do as they please anymore... not to you or Rain."
Melanie met his gaze, recognizing the shadow of the brother she once knew, but also recalling the bitterness he held toward Kayla, Rain’s mother, whom he’d blamed for Lydia’s death. For him, Kayla had been one to push Lydia to her breaking point to commit suicide aside from Arlan Cartier.
"I’ll be sending Dina abroad to continue her studies," Tim went on. "And as for Sylvia, I’ll keep her in check and ensure she treats you both with respect."