Chapter 3

Sterling's mother walked in, leading a large, boisterous group of people.

Her face was flushed with excitement; she didn't look sick at all.

"This is the house my daughter-in-law bought for me! Look how grand it is! My son really knows how to pick them. He found a wonderful wife like Rosalind."

"You all just make yourselves at home here for the wedding feast these next two days. I've taken care of everything."

Then, her eyes landed on my mother, who was standing awkwardly by the door.

Her brow furrowed, her expression filled with undisguised contempt.

"Who are you? What are you doing in my house?"

"What's wrong with the security guards at the gate? Letting beggars into the neighborhood!"

"Oh, I get it. You must be the maid my daughter-in-law hired!"

"Well, don't just stand there gawking! Don't you see the guests have arrived? Go make some tea, or I'll have you fired."

My mom, confused by the situation, looked to me for an explanation.

But before she could say a word, Sterling's mom strode forward and slapped her hard across the face.

"Are you deaf? I'm talking to you!"

"Look at you, dressed like a beggar. I'm doing you a favor by hiring you, and you dare to disobey your employer!"

"Now go make the tea, or I'll fire you!"

She had put all her strength into that slap. My mom's right cheek immediately swelled and turned a deep red.

"Mom!"

I lunged forward to steady her.

Then I scanned the room, from Sterling's mother to the horde of relatives behind her, and roared in a low voice.

"I'm giving you all one minute to get the hell out of here, or I'm calling the cops!"

Sterling's mother showed no fear. She just laughed, hands on her hips.

"Who do you think you are, ordering me around?"

"This house was a gift to me from my daughter-in-law. Even if the police come, they'll be arresting you two for trespassing."

My chest heaved with rage. I glared at Rosalind.

"So, is there anything you'd like to say to me?"

Rosalind's face was pale. She walked over to me.

Just as I thought she was finally going to come clean, she shoved my arm hard.

"Shut up! What are you yelling about? You're just the maid's son."

"You're both fired. Now get the hell out!"

Sterling's mom quickly added, "And I'll need to inspect your things before you leave."

"Looking as poor as you do, you're probably a thief. You'll try to sneak something out on your way."

My mom had never been humiliated like this in her life. She stood tall and declared, "This is my house! You're the ones who need to leave!"

That sent Sterling's mom into a rage.

"You want to squat in my house and refuse to leave? I'll teach you a lesson today!"

Before anyone could react, she kicked my mom square in the stomach.

My mom's head slammed against the floor, and she instantly lost consciousness.