Elena's patience wore thin as Reela's self-righteous tone filled the room.
With a cold laugh, Elena pulled her hand away and took a step back, glaring at Reela's stunned face.
"I have nothing to do with the Hall family, nor with Dylan. Why should I help you?" she said slowly, each word cutting like a blade.
Reela was momentarily taken aback.
"You cast me aside years ago and made sure everyone knew I was no longer part of your family. Now that you're in trouble, you come to me? You think I'm stupid enough to help?"
Elena stepped past her, intending to head inside, but Reela's voice echoed behind her.
"No matter what, you're my child! You and Dylan are siblings, you're bound together for life!"
Elena stopped in her tracks and turned around, a wry smile tugging at her lips.
"Bound tog
