Chapter 1963
Ivy had no proof to convince the interviewers of her innocence â an innocence that seemed to be
perpetually on trial.
After a brief huddle, the hiring managers offered Ivy an apologetic âSorry, but we can't offer you the
position.â
As much as she had braced herself for disappointment, the rejection still stung. With the weight of
regret pressing down on her, Ivy left the office, her steps heavy with dejection.
She had thought that severing ties with her family with a three-million-dollar settlement would
finally free her from their toxic grasp. But Clara, ever the spiteful half-sister, seemed determined to
make Ivy's life a misery. It wasn't enough that Ivy was forced to strike out on her own; Clara seemed
determined to sabotage even the smallest chance at independence.
Was this really her fate?
âWell, well, look who couldn't land a job. What a pity, dear sister,â Clara's voice dripped with
mockery as she caught up to Ivy outside the Harris Group's imposing building. âNeed your sis to
find you a gig as a stagehand or something? Keep you off the streets?â
Ivy was already at her breaking point, and Clara's taunting was like a match to kindling. âClara, you'd
do well to stay out of my sight!â she snapped, barely containing the storm brewing inside her. She
didn't want to cause a scene, not here on the company's doorstep.
Hatred had replaced whatever affection Ivy might have once held for Clara, who had stolen all of
her mother's love and relentlessly picked on her, making her life unbearable.
She had endured so much, conceded so much, yet still, Clara persisted.
âAs long as I'm around, I'll never let you have a moment's peace,â Clara sneered, her eyes glinting
with arrogance. âYou only have yourself to blame. If it weren't for your mother, the gold-digger,
marrying my father and having you, I would have been the Dunhill familyâs only precious daughter!â
Ivy couldn't believe Clara's cruelty extended even to her mother. âYou hate my mom? After
everything sheâs done for you? She always took your side, and never once wronged you!"
Clara scoffed. âGood thing your mom was smart enough to play housemaid and save us the
expense of hiring one. Otherwise, I'd have convinced Dad to throw both you and her out a long
time ago.â
Ivy's patience had reached its limit. âEnough, Clara! One more word and you'll regret it,â she
warned.
"Oh, are you threatening me now? I'd love to see you try,â Clara taunted, raising her hand to slap
Ivy.
But Ivy was ready. She caught Clara's wrist and, in a swift motion, returned the favor with a slap of
her own.
Clara was all bark and no bite. For all her bluster, she lacked any real strength.
âIvy! How dare you! You hit me. I have to be on set soon!â Clara's outrage was palpable as she
lunged at Ivy, grabbing her hair in a fit of
rage.
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