The Unlucky Turn by Mark Twain 357

At first, she had tried throwing tantrums, smashing things, and even going on a hunger strike to protest. But Gloria didn’t buy it at all, coldly dropping a single sentence: “If you want to starve to death, be my guest.” In that moment, Tamara finally realized that in Gloria’s heart, she was no longer the cherished Sloan heiress. She was the enemy who had destroyed her daughter’s life.

Tamara quickly adjusted her strategy. From then on, she didn’t cry, didn’t fuss, and didn’t argue. She ate her meals on time, read quietly in her room, and even actively helped the maids tidy up. For a full week, she truly stayed inside her room, never stepping a foot outside.

Gloria had initially been on guard against any schemes, but after seeing her behave for several days straight, her attitude softened slightly.

…

That evening, Zadie personally visited the Sherwood residence.

As soon as Gloria opened the door, she saw the smile plastered on Zadie’s face and the expensive gifts in her hands.

“Gloria, it’s been a while.”

Gloria stepped aside with a cold expression to let Zadie in. Gone was her usual warmth; the way she looked at Zadie was exceptionally frosty. “Shouldn’t you be with Hackett handling the mess your wonderful daughter created? What are you doing here?”

Zadie could tell Gloria’s attitude had changed. They had been good friends for years. After Tamara and Milford got engaged, the Sloans and Sherwoods had become even closer. Every time Zadie visited, Gloria had treated her with enthusiasm. She had never been treated like this

before…

11.00

It seemed Gloria really had been heartbroken by the events of the wedding day.

Thinking this, Zadie felt a twinge of discomfort. She apologized to Gloria with a remorseful look.

“Gloria, I know you’re angry with me. But I truly didn’t know about the things Tamara did. We’ve known each other for so many years. Have I ever done anything to hurt you? Tamara was ignorant and lost her mind for a moment, causing so much trouble for the Sherwoods. Whatever punishment you give her, she deserves it.”

“I didn’t come for anything else today, it’s just… It’s been a week since the wedding. With the Sherwoods and Sloans currently in the spotlight, I was wondering… could she come home for a quick dinner? Once she’s finished eating, I promise I’ll bring her right back.”

Gloria glanced at her coldly. “A family visit?”

Zadie nodded quickly, terrified Gloria would refuse. “Yes. You know how people talk. If she doesn’t visit home soon after the wedding, rumors will start flying about a rift between our families. I’m just afraid that in this current climate, it might generate even more negative press.”

Thinking of Tamara’s behavior over the past week, Gloria fell silent for a moment before finally relenting. “Fine. Let her go.”

\

She paused, then issued a warning. “But she has to be back tonight. Zadie, you said it yourself-we are in the spotlight. I advise you not to try any tricks. If this causes any more trouble for the Sherwoods… You know what I’m capable of.”

Zadie agreed profusely. In her view, as long as Gloria agreed to let Tamara come home, everything else was manageable. “Don’t worry! I’ll bring her back as soon as dinner is over!”

Zadie picked up Tamara and brought her back to the Sloan estate.

As soon as they walked through the door, Tamara’s tears began to fall.

“Dad!”

She threw herself into Hackett’s arms, weeping like a pear blossom

bathed in rain.

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