How to Destroy a Cheater Without Saying Goodbye novel Chapter 72

Loraine, regal and poised, swept into the preschool. She ignored Lara, who had just softly called her "Grandma."

As soon as Hedwig let go, little Healy scrambled up and threw himself into Loraine's arms, wailing and tattling between sobs. "Grandma, Auntie hit me, and Mommy pressed my face down like this—like this—it hurt so much."

Loraine shot a sharp look at Hedwig before turning to Blanche, her brows knit in disapproval. "Laney, how could you treat Healy like that?"

Blanche didn't bother to respond. Hedwig tried to explain. "Mom, Healy was protecting the girl who hit Tia. Blanche was just trying to discipline him—she only pressed his face down a little. It wasn't hard."

But Loraine's glare only intensified. She raised her voice for all the mothers in the lobby to hear. "You shouldn't press down on his face at all! What if Healy got hurt? And you," she snapped at Hedwig, "is that how an aunt should behave?"

Hedwig muttered under her breath, "All I did was pat his bottom—just a little." Being scolded by her mother in front of all the other society ladies made her cheeks burn with embarrassment; she dreaded the thought of anyone laughing at her expense.

Loraine knew all too well about Hedwig's temper—and how strict she was with Tia. Still, she dabbed away Healy's tears with a mother's tenderness, wondering why Laney was suddenly so harsh. In the past, even when Healy's mischief was worse, Laney never resorted to force. What had gotten into her today?

Just then, Lara, who had been standing quietly on the sidelines, stepped forward under the curious gazes of the parents. Her voice was sweet as she called out, "Grandma." But almost immediately, her face crumpled, and fat tears slid down her cheeks. She looked heartbreakingly small and vulnerable. "Grandma, they won't let me go to school here. I'm so scared."

A flurry of whispers broke out among the parents.

"She called Loraine 'Grandma.' Could she really be Mr. Simmons's illegitimate child?"

"No wonder Mrs. Simmons is so upset today."

"Their son's only five. That girl looks at least four. If it were me, I'd be furious too."

Scornful glances darted Lara's way. Loraine hesitated, not wanting to appear too affectionate. She placed a reassuring hand on Lara's shoulder and addressed the room. "This is Eddy's adopted daughter."

She turned to Lara and prompted, "Lara, go on—call your mother." She gestured toward Blanche.

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