“She said if I don’t clean the whole yard, I can’t have milk. I’m so thirsty. I just wanted milk.”
Milk.
The word hit Adrian like a punch to the ribs. His daughter—who had everything money could buy—was being made to earn a basic drink like she was being punished for existing. Adrian’s arms tightened around her as he slowly lifted his gaze.
Vanessa stood up, smoothing her dress with a calm that made Adrian’s skin crawl. “Don’t be dramatic, Adrian,” she said, voice cool as glass. “I’m teaching her discipline.
You spoil her. A little structure won’t ruin her.”
Adrian rose with Hannah in his arms. She buried her face against his neck like she wanted to disappear.
His voice dropped low, steady, dangerous. “This isn’t discipline.” He took one step forward. “This ends now.”
Vanessa gave a small laugh, empty and sharp.
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