Chapter 26 CHAPTER 26

Chapter 26 CHAPTER 26
ZARA

My sister drove me back to Father's house. The guards helped me with my luggage and we went inside. The maid informed us that Mother was at home in her room sleeping so we chose not to disturb her today.

“Zara. Where are you going?” Kate asked when she saw me walking towards the kitchen.

“I want to prepare your meal,” I said and she stood up. Kate walked up to me and pulled me closer towards the couch and sat me down.

“You should let the maid do that.” She said and I decided to listen to her. I know she is definitely trying to look out for me and I think this should be the third time she will be coming to the house after she left two years ago.

“Prepare a meal for us,” Kate said to one of the maids who stood not too close to us. The maid left to do what she was instructed to do. "And bring me cold water,” Kate added and sighed.

The maid went to the kitchen while we sat down beside each other. I don't really know how to bring up a conversation after this tiring trip but Kate spoke first.

“What are your plans for the rest of the week? Father still wants to see you tomorrow and Nicholas will be back the next day.” Kate asked me, being a caring person. She cares a lot about me and I sometimes wish the rest of the family were like that.

“As I told you earlier, I have a plan in mind. Also, I will work with Father for just two weeks then I will be leaving.” I told Rachel and she looked at me skeptically, not believing me.

Maybe she thought I was joking at first.

“What do you mean?” She asked, her eyebrows raised. “Are you serious?” Rachel asked me and I nodded, facing her. She looked worried but I tried to assure her that I would be fine.

“I want to focus on art and have my own gallery in future,” I told her and she smiled.

“I know you have a knack for drawing. If that is your decision, I will make sure Father approves of it. No one will hold you back from achieving your goal. I am so proud of you Zara.” Rachel praised me and that only gingered my mood more and raised my hopes.

“I doubt I will fail when I have someone who believes in me more than myself,” I told her and that is just the plain truth.

“Come on. It's because you are my friend. I will surely support you in any decision that I know will work in your favour.” Rachel said and I pulled her closer.

“Thank you,” I said and she smiled.

I shut my eyes as I rested my head on the couch, but then I smelled the familiar perfume.

“Who are you talking to Rachel?” I heard my mother’s voice and my eyes darted towards the stairs. I wasn't expecting to see her here when the maid already said she was sleeping.

“Mother” Rachel called in shock and stood up. She walked up to Mother quickly and pulled her in for a hug.

“Mother. I know you might not believe it but this is Zara. She just came back to LA today.” Rachel said and I stepped forward.

“How are you doing mother? I am glad to see you again,” I said, and she descended the stairs, her eyebrows raised.

“Wait. Did you choose to undergo surgery after all? I said that you are disgraceful, Zara.” Mother said and my mouth opened in shock.

“I know that you will always bring shame to the family, but I never expected you to pull my daughter into your shady schemes. “ Mother said and walked towards Rachel, pulling her closer.

“Didn't I tell you to get away from her?” Mother asked Rachel, her eyes shooting daggers at me.

I tried to speak but Mother raised her hand, silencing me. I should have known this is how she is going to react but I am not going to leave because I didn't do anything to be ashamed of.

“Mother!” Rachel exclaimed, surprising me. “You need to at least allow me to speak first.” She added, stomping her feet on the floor.

Colour drained from the mother's face. “What?” She asked in bewilderment.

I wasn't expecting Rachel to react that way. I think this will be the first time she will raise her voice in front of her mother. Even though she was the only child before I was brought in, Rachel was never spoiled.

“Did you just yell at your Mother because of her? You think she is your sister?” Mother asked Rachel and she shut her eyes, rubbing her forehead.

“Mother, I didn't yell at you. She is my friend.” Rachel said and walked back to the couch and sat down on the couch.