His Secret Spoiled Wife (Lily and Alexander) novel Chapter 2162

“Aunt Maria, as I said, my father has returned safely,” Anastasia said meaningfully.

Maria was at a loss for words. She knew she could no longer play dumb.

She seemed to have decided something and turned to hold Anastasia’s hand, saying, “Tasia, I know Rhea tried to harm you and your father, but she’s your cousin. She wasn’t thinking straight and was sorry for what she did.

“She didn’t mean to hurt you two, Tasia,” Maria spoke in tears, “Please forgive her. Besides, Alexander Russell has taken her away, and I don’t know if she’s still alive. I wanted your help to save her, but then Fabian got arrested.”

Anastasia had never seen her aunt crying so hard before.

Maria had always smiled and presented herself as a wealthy lady. However, her hair became disheveled, her eyes were red and swollen, and even her voice was shaky.

“Aunt Maria…” Anastasia gently called out after sighing. “Rhea didn’t care that I was her cousin when she poisoned me, did she?”

Maria was stumped. Her face flushed as she struggled with what to say. “W-Well, Rhea was young and was led astray by bad people. She was a victim, too! Besides, I’m sure she still treats you as her cousin. Otherwise, you would’ve died long ago, right?”

Anastasia was stunned as she looked at her aunt as if she were a stranger.

Maria noticed her niece’s reaction and said, “I didn’t mean anything bad by it, okay? Ask yourself how I’ve treated you since you were a kid. Haven’t I been good to you?”

Anastasia was quiet momentarily before murmuring, “You have been good to me.”

Indeed, whatever Maria’s motivations were, she had been good to Anastasia. She had cared for every aspect of Anastasia’s life, from food to clothing.

“Exactly!” Relieved, Maria smiled and added, “Rhea was only jealous because I’ve been so good to you. Although she harmed you, you’re better now, right? I spent a lot of money and energy getting the best doctors to treat you, remember?

“Look at you now. You now look pretty and slim—people treat you well because of your father. So, what about Rhea?” Maria felt like crying again. “I don’t even know where she is now.”

Anastasia was speechless.