Back at Ethan’s house, Grace had been doing everything she could to avoid her mother. Tania’s growing hatred for the child was palpable, and Grace had learned to recognize the danger signs. When Ethan was around, she stayed close to him, seeking comfort and protection. But when he wasn’t home, Grace would retreat to his home office, a safe haven where Tania rarely ventured.
But that evening, Grace wasn’t so lucky. She ventured into the kitchen to grab some snacks, unaware that Tania was already there. As soon as she spotted her mother, Grace’s instincts told her to run. But before she could escape, Tania’s cold hand shot out and grabbed her arm, gripping it tightly.
Tania’s face was a twisted mask of fury as she shook Grace violently, her voice filled with venom. “This is all your fault!” she screamed. “He spends all his time with you, loving a child that isn’t even his! But me? He doesn’t even look at me anymore!”
Grace trembled, her wide eyes filled with fear. She had never seen Tania like this before. The woman before her was a stranger, consumed by jealousy and hatred.
Tania’s grip tightened, and her voice dropped to a menacing whisper. “Don’t worry, sweetheart. I’ll handle you soon enough.”
Grace struggled to free herself, her heart pounding in her chest. “Let me go!” she cried, her voice shaking.
Tania’s lips curled into a cruel smile. “You think you’re so special? He does not care about you. But once you’re gone, he’ll come back to me.”
With one final shove, Tania released Grace, sending her stumbling backward. Grace scrambled away, tears streaming down her face as she fled to her room, her heart racing with terror.
As she slammed the door shut behind her, she collapsed onto her bed, hugging her knees to her chest. She knew she couldn’t stay here much longer. Tania’s hatred was growing, and it was only a matter of time before she made good on her threats.