Chapter 68 Compatibility Over Competence

I stood up, tightly holding Bobby's hand in mine, not wanting to let go.

Mary, now composed, shot me a disapproving glare. She snapped, "You're ill and still itching to leave the house? And what's with that fresh bump on your noggin? Layla, you're seriously letting yourself go! Not cool!"

Her words felt like an ice pick stabbing into my heart, causing every cell in my body to tremble with pain.

I scoffed internally. I wanted to take care of my appearance, but the way I was now was all because of the Hall family.

They were so hypocritical, treating me like a fool, enjoying life with the money I worked hard to earn, and still criticizing me.

Sophie indeed had a good image, but she used my money to beautify herself.

Now, Mary dared to criticize my appearance.                                

Back then, without me, Mary was just a poor woman worried about food and clothing.

Now, she was adorned with pearls around her neck and custom jewelry on her wrists, pretending to be wealthy. She only had a few good days and already looked down on my appearance.

I thought, 'One day, I'll make sure you return to your original social status.'

I gritted my teeth, composed myself, and sat calmly on the sofa with Bobby. I looked directly at Mary and replied faintly, "Mary, I do have good days. I need to get out sometimes."

I raised my hand to pat my short hair, remarking, "I suffered from intense hair loss during my illness, hence the trim. Survival comes first! If my appearance bothers you that much, I'll make an effort!"

Mary's face was cold, a stark contrast to when she saw Sophie. It was clear that she favored those who flattered her.

She glared at Bobby. "Why aren't you doing your homework?"

Bobby flinched and tried to pull his hand away, but I tightened my grip and didn't let go. I looked at Mary. "Did Bobby upset you?"

Mary impatiently retorted, "Just ask him. He's a handful at school, constantly misplacing stuff and picking quarrels with classmates. I'm drained!"

I took the opportunity to say, "In that case, I'll bring him home with me! You've been understandably anxious. Why don't you take a break, and I'll look after him for a few days!" I seized the moment to playfully add, "Hall family kids are always full of surprises, aren't they?"

"You--"

"I recall your remark about the mischievous nature of Hall siblings. Despite their academic struggles, they seem to excel in the professional realm. Indeed, you were spot-on. They are all thriving within the company now!" I added with a grin, "I'll bring Bobby along for a bit, granting you the chance to unwind!"

"No way, John said you're too sick to take care of a child!" Mary probably didn't expect me to do this and immediately objected. "You should focus on getting better!"

I refuted, "I do need to recover, but that doesn't stop me from taking care of my child. Your health is important too. Illness can strike without warning. I suddenly fell ill, but luckily, I survived. Everyone at the company is worried about me, so I should take care of my child. That's only fair!" 

I said as I stood up. "I won't stay for dinner. I'll take Bobby to eat something simple. I also want to educate him!"

Mary refused, "What's your implication? I've been there for him since he was a child. Can't I guide him a bit? You show up and aim to whisk him away promptly. Have I been unkind to him? You're not well, and if your health deteriorates abruptly, you might need to return him. That would be tough on the kid." She persisted, her tone cutting.

"Whoever is right should be listened to!" My tone hardened. "Your education is correct. Only then can the child succeed! This time, I'm careful. My health won't deteriorate further!"

"If you suddenly take Bobby away, how will I explain it to John?" Mary retorted as she stood up to block me.

"I'm just taking him home for a few days. Is it necessary to explain to him? If so, I'll call him." I showed no intention of backing down.

Just as I took out my phone to call John, unexpectedly, John walked in through the door.