Chapter 6 Emily's Challenges
1005 Words
I barely had time to react before the call was ended, leaving only a dial tone.
That was Emily, sharp-tongued, controlling, and always so condescending.
To her, my role as Jack's wife and a member of the Cruz family was to help maintain the family's image.
Hosting a flawless dinner party was just one of my many duties.
'It seems like Jack hasn't mentioned our divorce to Emily yet. I'd better take this chance to get my things out.'
Determined, I made up my mind. 'It is time to break free from this family's control and start my life anew.'
After saying goodbye to Joseph, I left the office.
As I approached the elevator, a young girl stumbled out of a nearby office, her steps unsteady.
Without looking up, she bumped straight into me, and a stack of medical records scattered across the floor.
"Sorry... I'm so sorry, ma'am." Her voice was thick with tears as she apologized.
Looking down, I saw one of the medical records, and I couldn't help but sigh.
Her loved one was battling cancer, too, and the weight of it had clearly overwhelmed her, causing her to lose her composure.
Feeling a surge of sympathy, I paused, bending down to help her gather the scattered papers.
Within seconds, she was sobbing uncontrollably, gasping for breath between sobs.
I understood the fear of losing someone close, and I let out a small sigh, helping her to a nearby chair.
I wanted to comfort her, but words failed me.
But as I watched her on the verge of hyperventilating, I realized this wouldn't help her at all.
Suddenly, an idea flashed through my mind. I remembered my awakened ability. 'It could work on women too, offering a kind of encouragement, like a queen bee guiding her hive.'
With this thought, that peculiar scent filled the air again, and I looked into the girl's eyes, saying softly, "Come on, stay strong. Your family needs you. Keep up the treatment, and there's always hope for recovery."
Her gaze shifted from despair to calmness and then gradually brightened with renewed hope.
She finally steadied herself, gripping my hands tightly. "Thank you. I feel like I can face anything now."
I gave her a reassuring smile, and seeing that she was composed, I turned and walked away.
I drove toward the countryside villa.
The moment I stepped through the door, Emily was sitting on the sofa with a mocking smile as she stared at me.
"Well, well, let's see where you've been running off to. Skipping chores and disappearing without a word, who do you think you are? Don't forget your place. You belong to Jack. Every minute of your time, every bit of freedom, belongs to us."
When I looked at her smug expression, memories of the past four years in the Cruz family flooded my mind, stirring up a wave of bitterness and anger.
My life seemed perfect. I had a handsome husband, a wealthy family, and all the prestige in the world.
But in reality, this family was miserly, and I had to do everything myself, laundry, cooking, repairs, gardening.
And no matter how hard I tried, Emily's constant criticism never stopped.
Yet, back when I hit rock bottom, it was Jack who stayed by my side, and that thought helped me endure.
But he betrayed me, cheating with my best friend. That was unforgivable.
For the first time, I abandoned my usual deference, speaking coldly, "I'm not anyone's accessory. I have every right to decide my life! From now on, I won't follow your orders. I have my own life and career."
Before Emily could respond, I turned and headed up to the second-floor bedroom. I was going to take back what was mine.
"What did you just say? Stop right there!" Her voice, filled with fury, echoed behind me.
I knew she was furious. No one in this family had ever dared to defy her like this.
'Well, someone had to start. Me, right?'
Without looking back, I entered the room and quickly packed my things.
There was little to take, just my identification and a few clothes.
Four years as a housewife had isolated me from the world, turning me into a prisoner in my own home.
The once ambitious and vibrant young woman had been trapped within these walls. But now, I was ready to reclaim my life, to become my own queen.
With my suitcase in hand, I made my way downstairs. As I reached the stairs, I heard voices drifting up from below.
"Mr. Smith, it's such an honor to have you here." Emily's voice rang out, exaggerated and grating.
"Jack has always been a respected alumnus, and I'm happy to support his endeavors." A smooth, cultured voice sounded.
At that moment, I recognized the speaker.
Louis Smith was a member of the board at my university. When the school expelled me, he cast the only dissenting vote.
If I wanted to continue my research, I needed access to the campus lab, only where I could find the patented formula by Professor Andrew.
A plan began to form in my mind, and I decided to approach Louis.
I put my suitcase back in the room and glanced at my reflection in the mirror.
I looked different, healthier, more vibrant, as if I had regained my youthful glow.
With newfound confidence, I dressed up and headed downstairs.
By then, guests were arriving, filling the villa with the hum of conversation.
Emily spotted me through the crowd. Her expression twisted with disdain. She marched over, her voice dripping with contempt.
"Anna, what on earth are you wearing? This is a high-society dinner, not some poolside party! Who are you trying to seduce, you disgusting woman?"
Her shrill voice pierced the air, immediately drawing everyone's attention.
All eyes turned to me, some curious, others gleeful. They were all waiting for my embarrassment.
'If you're expecting me to fail, I might as well be the most dazzling presence in the room.'
- Writer
