Chapter 56

Bella Quinn couldn't bear leaving Susan Thompson alone. She wanted to take leave to stay with her. But early in the morning, Grandma Thompson blocked Willow Lane's entrance, shouting and dragging her to work.

Susan curled up in Daniel's room. The wound on her forehead had scabbed, yet she still wore the bloodstained clothes. Like a walking corpse, she even forgot to close the door.

Nicole Capra entered gracefully in high heels, carrying an exquisite sandalwood box. Seeing Susan's state, a flicker of satisfaction crossed her eyes.

"Dear sister, how did you end up like this?" Nicole feigned concern with a sigh. "Andrew and I are so worried about you."

"Get out." Susan's voice was hoarse.

Instead of leaving, Nicole extended the box. "I came to bring Daniel home."

Susan snatched it, shocked by its unnatural lightness. This box couldn't possibly hold a child!

"Don't panic," Nicole's red lips curved. "This does contain Daniel, but..."

She slowly opened the box, revealing bloodied fabric scraps—Daniel's clothes from his fall.

Susan trembled violently. Her fingers spasmed, unable to grasp the fabric.

"Know why only these remain?" Nicole whispered like a venomous snake. "Wild beasts tore him apart. Andrew thought this would be easier for you."

Susan stood frozen, as if struck by lightning.

"Those beasts..." Nicole narrowed her eyes. "Did they snap his neck first? Or eat him limb by limb?"

"Ah—!" Susan hurled a teacup at her.

It shattered at Nicole's feet, glass shards flying.

"Invite me to the funeral," Nicole stroked the box's edge. "After all, he called me auntie."

Susan smashed a chair against Nicole's back. Nicole winced but smiled brighter. Satisfied, she left, heels clicking sharply on the wooden floor.

Alone, Susan clutched the box desperately. She pressed the bloodied fabric to her face, imagining Daniel's scent still lingered.

"Daniel... Mommy's sweet Daniel..."

The funeral was simple. Susan reserved a plot beside Daniel's grave. Back at Willow Lane, she began sorting his belongings.

Inside a black velvet box, she discovered...