Chapter 14 
The three of them came back together. Megan eyed Alyssa and remarked, “You were so fired up today. I thought you were done with Sean for good. So why are you back?” 
Alyssa, too exhausted to engage, just headed toward her room trest. 
Alyssa turned and saw Brenda, who had been away on a trip last week, had returned. 
Brenda settled into the sofa with a smile. “It’s Megan’s birthday today. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.” 
After that, Brenda turned her gaze to Alyssa. “The dead are gone, but the living still have to carry on. Don’t let your dad’s passing come between you and Sean. You’re about to get married, so you should know how to be a good wife. Go ahead and start cooking. There’s a lot to prepare today, so get a move on.” 
Alyssa couldn’t help but curl her lip in disgust. Brenda always acted like she had all the answers, but she was blatantly biased toward Sean, constantly belittling Alyssa as if she was nothing more than Sean’s maid. 
Alyssa used to think Brenda was the best mother–in–law anyone could ask for and had really opened up to her. But now, she was determined not to let Brenda walk all over her anymore. 
Tm exhausted and need to rest, Alyssa replied, “But, Brenda, you did mention it’s Megan’s birthday today. As her mom, it wouldn’t kill you to whip up a special meal for her, right?” She smiled and headed toward her room. 

Brenda’s eyes widened in shock. She hadn’t expected this from Alyssa, who was usually such a pushover. As her anger started. to bubble up. Brenda turned to Sean. “Sean, did you hear your girlfriend just now?!” 

Sean frowned and stopped Alyssa. “I know today’s the anniversary of your dad’s passing. I get why you were a bit on edge this morning. We did pay our respects at the cemetery, after all. But my mom’s right. We shouldn’t let this cause a rift between us. Now, go and cook dinner.” 
“Why not?” Sean asked coldly. 
“No 
particular reason,” Alyssa replied, emphasizing each word. “Tjust don’t feel like it. 
Sean’s fury was palpable, his fists clenching. Hailey quickly stepped in. “Alyssa, Mr. Rivera’s really tired from all the work at the company. Please don’t make a scene.” 
Lowering her voice, Hailey added, “Alyssa, remember what I told you? Men like women who take care of their families.” Alyssa looked at Hailey, then smiled. She took Hailey’s hand and softly said, “Hailey, you said you’d help me, didn’t you?” “Sure, I’ll help,” Hailey replied without missing a beat. 
Alyssa smiled, mischief in her eyes. “Great! How about you take over the cooking today?” 
Alyssa feigned surprise. “What, you’re not going to help? I thought we were besties. I’m on my period and feel under the weather. Don’t you wanna help me?” 
Hailey cursed Alyssa under her breath, but to avoid raising any suspicions, she forced a chuckle. Tin sorry, but I’m not as good in the kitchen as you are,” said Hailey. 
Alyssa waved it off. “No worries, I’ll walk you through it.” 
Fine, Hailey reluctantly agreed. 
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