Karma Doesn’t Sleep: The Revenge Queen Rises novel Chapter 38

Forty minutes later, Amelia finally came downstairs.

Her long black hair was twisted up neatly with a jade hairpin, simple but striking. She wore hardly any makeup—just a swipe of lipstick to bring some color to her pale, flawless skin. The soft green dress she picked made her look even slimmer, almost otherworldly, beautiful in a quiet, effortless way.

The chauffeur waiting by the door froze, caught off guard for a second. As soon as he collected himself, he stepped forward quickly and opened the back door for her.

The Salmeron family estate wasn’t exactly close, and by the time Amelia’s car pulled up, the sky was painted with the gold and pink of sunset.

As she stepped out, Clive’s car rolled in from the other direction. He spotted her right away, standing by the road, the evening breeze playing with her dress. She looked so poised and graceful, like a flower in full bloom.

Clive gave a quick honk. The sound made Amelia turn her head, almost on instinct.

With the clouds glowing behind her, she seemed to shine.

Clive narrowed his eyes, memories bubbling up from somewhere deep inside. He suddenly remembered high school, when Amelia used to wait for him at the school gate. She’d be there in her summer uniform, white blouse and pleated skirt, her ponytail swaying in the breeze. Even then, she had that rare, cool beauty that set her apart from everyone else.

But whenever she saw him, her whole face would light up. She’d call his name, waving so hard her hand nearly flew off, her smile bright and alive.

Everyone walking by would be drawn to her, but she only had eyes for him.

Clive had to admit, moments like that made his ego soar. Back then, he’d thought, if Amelia just stayed this sweet and obedient for the next ten years, he wouldn’t mind making her Mrs. Salmeron.

He got out of the car.

In the back seat, Timmy had already undone his seatbelt and hopped out, reaching back to help Penny down.

Amelia, still pretending to be blind, heard their footsteps running toward her. She had to fight the urge to reach out and pull them both into a hug.

“Timmy? Penny?” she called softly, smiling and holding out her hand.

He’d completely forgotten how, years ago, he’d told her this dress was too plain for her, and made her put it away to gather dust.

But as he leaned in, Amelia caught a faint scent beneath his usual cologne—a hint of women’s perfume.

She’d smelled that exact perfume on Kristen earlier today.

Which could only mean Kristen had just been in his car.

A chill flashed in Amelia’s eyes. Suddenly, it all made sense—the kids’ coldness, their stares.

“How long are you two going to keep hugging out here?” Caroline called, a little impatient, still holding Penny close.

Penny buried her face in her aunt’s shoulder and whispered, her lips trembling, “Let’s go, Aunt Caroline. I don’t want to go inside with that mean woman.”