Chad and Molly had just gotten back to their small town when they were hit with the news that their house had been swarmed by the police. As the newlyweds walked away, the neighbors couldn't help but gossip like it was a scene straight out of a soap opera. Whispers about Molly possibly being pregnant spread like wildfire—after all, why else would Chad go out of his way to open the car door for her?
Some even speculated that their marriage might have been rushed due to Molly's supposed pregnancy. Amid these rumors, it came to light that Molly wasn't actually the biological daughter of the Byrne family, who had lovingly raised her for over a decade. Word had it that Molly was actually the long-lost daughter of the wealthy Cedillo family, and her real name, Andre, was synonymous with grandeur.
When Chad and Molly arrived at Molly's family home, her parents greeted them, looking worn out. Molly wanted to confide in her mother, Coleen, about the challenges they were facing but couldn't bring herself to speak up. The family, including Grandma Aubree and Grandpa Elmer, didn't know how to approach the delicate situation.
Coleen, deciding to give the couple some space, suggested she and Molly take a walk around the town. As they strolled, they overheard townspeople gossiping about their family's affairs. Coleen, skilled at navigating conversations in any social circle, engaged with the villagers, sharing just enough to keep the gossip harmless.
The conversation took a turn when someone mentioned Juliana, Coleen's sister-in-law, who had been a constant source of trouble. Molly seized the moment to air her grievances about Juliana's entitlement and the burdens she had placed on their family. Despite their own financial struggles, Coleen and her husband had gone above and beyond to support Juliana through her divorce, childcare, and even her entrepreneurial endeavors.
Molly's passionate recounting of her family's generosity and Juliana's ingratitude struck a chord with the listeners. The townspeople sympathized with Molly and Coleen, recognizing the family's efforts to help Juliana despite her ungrateful attitude. In a town where everyone knew each other's business, Molly and Coleen's candidness painted a vivid picture of their family's unwavering kindness in the face of adversity, leaving a lasting impression on their sympathetic audience.
"Ever since you were young, she was green with envy. When you started your own business, she was the talk of the town, accusing you of trying to show off. When you made money, she was sour as a lemon behind your back. During the financial crisis, she watched on, laughing like it was some kind of sick joke. When your company went public, suddenly, she wanted a piece of the pie. When you were sick, she was practically waiting to inherit your fortune. And when you got better, she was so infuriating, you ended up back in the hospital. Thinking about it now just makes me want to... to do something so drastic, her own parents wouldn't recognize her!"
The words "to kill" were silenced by Coleen's stern look, knowing full well what her daughter was about to say. Some things you just say amongst family to blow off steam. But outside, in public, you've got to watch your words. Molly bit her tongue and corrected herself.
Molly's words only served to deepen the town's disdain for Juliana. "How has your family put up with this for so long? After this, I don't see anyone in our town giving her the time of day. Juliana has the audacity to go this far, without a shred of conscience."
"Coleen, you're just too kind-hearted. Your family has been doing well, and yet you still help her. If I were in your shoes, I would have confronted her a long time ago."
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