"Marie, you're getting me so excited! I'll make sure my mom and the others come," Hanley exclaimed.
"You're such a good boy, Hanley."
"But… what if Mom doesn't come? I called her earlier, and she sounded really firm."
"Is that so?" A cold smile touched the corner of Marie's lips. "Hanley, do you trust me?"
"Of course I trust you, Auntie Marie."
"Good. I'm sorry, Hanley."
Suddenly, Marie slapped Hanley hard across the face.
The sharp sting made him grimace, and his head swam as he saw stars.
"Auntie Marie, what are you doing? That really hurts!"
"Does it hurt?" Marie asked. "If it hurts, then cry."
Hanley couldn't help but start crying. Marie said, "Quick, call your mother. Tell her you miss her so much and you really want her to come to your birthday party. Tell her you'll apologize to her in front of everyone for what you've done and that you hope she can forgive you."
Marie dialed the number for him. As soon as the call connected, Hanley began to wail.
***
At Hanley's birthday party.
Marie had spent a million dollars on the event, holding it at a top-tier hotel. The entire venue was decorated with a Ferrari racing team theme.
The children were thrilled.
"Hanley, your birthday party is so fancy!"
"Of course it is," Hanley said smugly. "My Auntie Marie is the best. She loves spending money on me. Not like my old mom, who was super cheap."
Nearby, some adults were whispering among themselves.
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