Chapter 38

Anna knew her daughter was worried about her.

She spoke softly to reassure her. "Don't worry about me, Anna. Howard doesn't dare touch me right now. He still needs you to get close to Adrian."

Vivian saw the situation clearly.

Howard was using Anna as a pawn.

A pawn to use against Adrian.

It was this very value that kept him in check.

Anna still felt uneasy.

But she reconsidered. Leaving early to prepare might be for the best.

She needed time to plan and pave the way for the future.

Vivian's stance was firm.

She would not leave the Lowell family.

Anna held her mother's hand.

"Mom, I can move out first."

"But you must promise me you'll take good care of yourself."

"Absolutely do not let yourself be mistreated."

A gentle smile touched Vivian's lips.

"Silly child, don't worry."

"We still have a good life to live together in the future."

Anna suppressed the ache in her heart.

"I'll bring you over once I have everything arranged."

Vivian gave a slight nod.

Mother and daughter sat talking on the sofa.

Anna was about to get up and go upstairs to pack.

Suddenly, there was a noise at the door.

Howard returned from outside.

His gaze swept over them, landing on Anna.

"Home so early? No work?"

He handed his coat to a servant.

He loosened his cuffs and sat on the sofa.

The cushion sank deeply under his weight.

Anna answered calmly. "I finished my work for today."

Howard let out a cold laugh.

"It seems Adrian treats you well."

"Keep it up. Secure him."

Anger welled in Anna's eyes.

Vivian discreetly pressed her hand.

Anna took a deep breath.

"I'm moving out."

Howard slammed his teacdown.

His gaze turned sinister as he stared at her.

A chill ran down Anna's spine.

Vivian gripped her daughter's hand tightly.

Her palm was slick with cold sweat.

Howard's rage erupted suddenly.

"Move out? Dream on!"

"Don't think I don't know what you're planning!"

He shot to his feet.

"Think you can fly away now that your wings are strong?"

"Planning to team up with Adrian against me?"

Anna found it absurd.

"I just want to move out."

"I have the right to choose."

Howard was completely provoked.

"In this house, what I say goes!"

"Don't you dare make decisions on your own!"

Vivian quickly stood to intervene.

"Howard, don't be angry. Let's talk this through."

Howard immediately turned his hostility toward her.

"Useless woman. You have no say here!"