A Mother They Never Needed
Lauren’s voice changed immediately, becoming sweet and theatrical.
“Girls! Look how grown up you are!”
Emma tilted her head slightly.
“We’re blind,” she said calmly. “Isn’t that why you left?”
The blunt honesty made Lauren pause for a moment before she forced another smile.
“I’ve thought about you every day,” she said.
Clara didn’t hesitate.
“We haven’t thought about you at all.”
Pride filled my chest so strongly it almost hurt.
Lauren cleared her throat and pulled two garment bags from behind her.
“I came back because I have something for you.”
Inside were expensive designer gowns.
Then she placed a thick envelope of cash on the table.
The Condition
“I want my daughters back,” she said smoothly.
My stomach tightened.
“Why now?” I asked quietly.
She smiled and placed a document on top of the envelope.
“There’s just one condition.”
Emma’s voice trembled slightly.
“What condition?”
Lauren’s smile widened.
“You have to choose me over your father.”
continue to the next page.”
