Save Myself From Desperation novel Chapter 131

It was funny. This was Ashley's first time hearing such a neutral term of address from her mother.

Bertha used to either call her by her full name or scold her as a "worthless girl" or a "good-for-nothing".

Ashley initially didn't want to pay attention to Bertha, but now, she was somewhat interested. She signaled Joseph and Jaden, then walked with Bertha to a fountain nearby.

The setting sun cast its last rays, sprinkling the fountain's water with sparkling diamonds. The shimmering water was quite beautiful.

Ashley, however, didn't admire the scenery. With a cold tone, she asked, "What do you want to talk about?"

Bertha fiddled with her handbag. She had never spoken so humbly in front of Ashley, and it took her a few seconds to speak in a bitter voice. "Ashley, your brother and sister..."

Ashley cut her off coldly. "Mrs. Ramos, I don't have a brother, and I certainly don't have a sister."

Bertha felt a sting in her heart and widened her eyes in disbelief. Her well-maintained face showed faint wrinkles. "What did you call me?"

In her mind, Bertha thought, 'Mrs. Ramos? She won't even call me Mom?'

Ashley, taller than Bertha snorted and looked down at her. "Mrs. Ramos, if you're here to discuss what I should call you, I don't have time for this."

Bertha's breathing quickened. She closed her eyes, then reopened them as if ready to humble herself. She spoke softly. "Today, at the Design Exchange Competition, Jessica knocked over a water bottle and ruined your design. The incident was posted online, and many people are criticizing her. Jessica's reputation, which had just started to improve, is being tarnished again.

"Ashley, can you post a statement online saying you've forgiven Jessica so people will stop criticizing her, please?"

Ashley's tone was indifferent, barely showing any emotion. "You're upset that Jessica is being criticized?"

Without hesitation, Bertha replied, "Jessica is my daughter. Seeing so many people criticize her, how can I, as her mother, not feel upset?"

Ashley found this amusing and actually laughed, but her eyes didn't share the humor.

"Mrs. Ramos, when you falsely accused me of pushing you and let the internet insult me, did you feel even a bit sorry for me, the one being criticized?"

Bertha was speechless and couldn't respond for a while.

Ashley's smile faded, and she turned to leave.