When Family Became a Place I Couldn’t Return To novel Chapter 174

“Ms. Olson, Brody isn’t here. You should head back,” Nelly said, her voice calm and even through the intercom.

Sheila’s face changed the moment she heard Nelly, but she recovered quickly, putting on a bright, practiced smile. “Oh, Ms. Stewart, you’re home too. I actually didn’t just come for Brody. I brought some treats for Carrie, things she really loves. You’re not going to be so stingy that you won’t even open the door for me, are you?” Sheila’s tone was all sweetness, like she and Nelly were old friends, if you ignored the tension crackling beneath every word.

“Carrie’s already had dinner,” Nelly replied, her own voice gentle, but the air was heavy with unspoken conflict. “If you want to drop something off for Brody, you can bring it to his office or ask him to come pick it up from you.”

“Ms. Stewart, this isn’t even your house, is it? If I need to leave, shouldn’t Brody or Carrie be the ones to tell me?” Sheila’s smile faded, her expression sharpening as she stared right into the camera, like she was glaring at Nelly herself. She still couldn’t believe Brody had brought Nelly back home. That explained why he’d been avoiding her lately and why Carrie hadn’t picked up a single call.

“Alright then, you can wait outside until they tell you,” Nelly replied with a small smile, then ended the call without another word.

Sheila was so furious she almost choked. She’d thought Nelly would lose her cool, but she hadn’t shown even a flicker of emotion.

Nelly turned away, poured herself a glass of water, and took her time sipping it. Marian hurried over, worry etched on her face. “Ma’am, she’s still outside. Should I ask someone to send her away?”

“It’s okay. She wants to wait for Brody, Let her be. While you’re at it, give Brody a call for her. Remind him to come home a little faster.”

Marian looked shocked. “Is that really okay?” It didn’t look good having Sheila waiting out front. If Brody saw her there, he might get upset with Nelly. Brody had always treated Ms. Olson with care. Now that Nelly was finally home and things were starting to get better, Marian just wanted everything to stay peaceful.

But Nelly only smiled and gave Marian’s shoulder a reassuring pat. There was something different about her now, something bold and unshakable. Marian felt a chill on her arms. Still, since Nelly had spoken, she dialed Brody’s number.

Nelly went back to Carrie, who quickly locked her phone and tried to act innocent. Nelly smiled at her, softening. “Who called? Why didn’t you answer?”

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