Helen Smith’s POV
Karen, Piper. I miss you. I never hated or wanted you out of my life or the mansion, but I did everything for your good. There was something you didn’t know that I’ve been keeping close.
I felt that my fate was not as good as the other mothers’. Martin, my most beloved son, went before me, while John, my second son, has an unpleasant character and intentions. Maybe it’s all my fault. I spoiled John too much for him to become what he is today.
To him, it was only my treasure that mattered and not me as his mother. I knew and could see their suspicious intentions and movements. Even John and Erin’s every word showed that they were after something from me. Of course, they were after the company, the estate, and the mansion, as well as some of the other properties I owned.
When I learned of their intentions and Piper’s departure from the mansion seven years ago, I realized that if all my assets fell into John’s hands, then I was finished and Karen and Piper’s fate would end badly.
So, in anticipation of that, I bought several properties and invested secretly. I did all of this for Piper and myself.
Erin and Megan, did you think you can fool me? No, you couldn’t.
I knew what you’d been hiding from me, Erin. And someday I’m going to tell everyone the truth.
Maybe I should try talking to Piper. Seven years had passed, and I hoped she would talk to me.
This time, I dialed Piper’s cell phone number while sober. Several ringtones sounded until she finally received my call. My heart skipped a beat even though I couldn’t deny I was happy.
“Hello,” a man’s voice spoke into Piper’s cell phone.
“Hello, d-do I get to talk to Piper?” I said.
“Yes, may I know your name? Would you like to wait for a moment? Piper is in the shower and will be done in a minute,” he asked.
Could this man be Jay?
“I’m Helen, her grandmother. I’ll wait until she’s finished. Thank you,” I replied.
“Oh, Ms. Helen. I’m sorry I didn’t know you were Piper’s grandmother. I’m Jay Adams,” he said.
“It’s nice talking to you, Jay. I’ve heard great things about you. I have something to ask you. Are you in a relationship with my granddaughter?” I tried to confirm.
“Yes, and we have a lot to tell you,” he replied.
“Me too. I am going to have a tea party soon, and I hope you can come. We can talk about many things then. My assistant will contact you further.”
“I’m looking forward to that day, and I’m sure Piper will be thrilled to hear this. She’s already finished her shower. Nice talking to you,” he said, and I heard two people whispering. Not long after that, the phone changed hands.
“Grandma,” Piper said. Her voice was the same as before. My dear granddaughter.
“Piper. How are you?” I asked. My heart was beating quick and my palms sweating. I kept praying silently that Piper would talk and forgive me.
“I am in the hospital, but I’m doing better now. Love hearing your voice. I miss you, Grandma,” she replied, and I heard a crying voice.
“I miss you, too. What happened to you? Did you hurt? Are you crying? Why are you crying?” I asked. And then I realize I’d been asking her a lot of questions and before I knew it, tears were streaming down my face.
And then I heard Piper laugh, “You never change, Grandma. But, I love hearing your questions. We can finally talk like this again. A few days ago, I fell and hurt my right leg and right hand but nothing serious. There’s nothing to worry about. I’m crying out of happiness. How are you, Grandma?”
“I’m not well because I miss you and your mom. Tell me which hospital and room you’re in?” I asked.
“I’ll be home from the hospital tomorrow morning. Jay and I will come and see Grandma. Is Grandma busy tomorrow night?” Piper asked.
“I’ll wait for you. Let’s have dinner together. I’m not busy.”
“Thanks, Grandma. The nurse is coming. We’ll talk tomorrow,” she said.
“All right. Good night.”
“Good night,” Piper replied.
After hanging up, I leaned back in my chair, crying and laughing. My heart was happy. I felt like I had released was the baggage and guilt that had shackled me for seven years. The weight on my heart and shoulders was gone.
Martin, I was going to do what I should have done a long time ago. I won’t let Piper and your wife suffer anymore. You can rest in heaven now.
I miss you, Martin.
Megan’s POV
I had finally gotten past dinner and Grandma’s scary questions. Now it was time for me to see that man. Only he could help me.
After getting ready, I hurried out of the room and walked sneakily to the stairs. I guessed Grandma, mom, and Dad were already asleep. And there were only a few servants passing by on the second floor. It seemed like they were from Grandma’s bedroom.
However, just as my feet were about to step down the first step, I heard Dad’s voice from behind me.
“Where are you going?” Dad asked.
I turned around and smiled nervously. What should I tell Dad? Think fast!
“I-it’s, I-I,” I replied.
Stupidly, I answered nervously and stammered like that. Dad will get suspicious.
“What? Why are you nervous? Am I not allowed to know where you’re going?” Dad asked.
“It’s not like that. I’m just going out with some friends. Having fun. Just for a few hours. Please, Dad. I’m not a kid anymore,” I replied.
Good job, Megan. You’re smart.
“Ah okay. Be home by midnight. Understood?” Dad asked with a probing look.
“Ok, Dad.” I walked over to Dad, hugged him, and kissed his cheek.
“I’ll go first. Good night.” I hurried down the stairs, waving goodbye.
I never thought it would be so easy to lie to Dad.
Long story short, the car I was driving had arrived at an old building on a fairly quiet street, despite its location in the middle of the city. The dim street lights, the lack of houses, and the few shops around the street made this street quiet and eerie.
I hurriedly got out of the car and entered the building. Before going inside, two large men held me back. After they called the man, they let me in.
The inside of the old building was full of drunks, gamblers, and prostitutes. The man asked me to go up to the second floor. I was now standing in front of the entrance to his room. After knocking a few times, a voice came from inside.
“Please come in,” the voice replied.