Shattered Rose He Held On Tight novel Chapter 36

Chapter 36 Old Wounds

4508

Finished

Wilson muttered to himself, “Forget it. That girl is always so stubborn. Who knows if she’s really okay? I’ll have her mom check on her later.”

Lydia watched his back as he rushed off to find Lottie. Her face stayed blank as she stood and knocked over the teacup.

Hot tea spilled onto the carpet, soaking into the scams.

On Zoey’s memorial day, Claudia woke with a heavy heart.

She stood in front of the mirror, dressed in a black dress, her face pale and distant. Suddenly, she lifted her hand to block her reflection, as if she couldn’t bear to see herself.

When she arrived at the family house, the family of five was quietly enjoying breakfast together.

When they saw Claudia, Lydia smiled sweetly and turned to the maid. “Bertha, bring a chair for Claudia.”

Claudia glanced at the five matching chairs around the table and shook her head. “No need. I already ate.”

Her silence, paired with the somber day, kept even Zane–the one most likely to tease–from making jokes. For once, the house felt calm instead of tense.

Lottie hadn’t seen her daughter in a long time. She wanted to talk with her. But that cold expression kept her from opening her mouth.

When everyone was ready to leave, Lydia suddenly smacked her forehead. “Oh no, I forgot the gift I prepared for Mom. It’s still upstairs.”

She turned to Claudia and asked, “Can you come with me? I might not be able to carry it alone.”

Her eyes sparkled with innocence and warmth.

On this day, the sharp–edged Claudia always seemed to soften, like a tame rabbit, never fighting back.

Lydia had known this pattern after years of their disagreement.

Sure enough, when Zane jumped up and said he was strong enough to help, Lydia shook her head quickly. “No thanks. Boys are too clumsy with delicate things.” Claudia stayed silent and

1/3

20:06 Wed, Oct 8

Chapter 36 Old Wounds

walked upstairs.

Finished

Lydia turned back and gave her parents a playful wink, as if to say: See? Didn’t I tell you I’d

make it work?

She had promised that today she would try to find a chance to case things with Claudia. Wilson and Lottic naturally thought this was Lydia’s way of reaching out, of trying to make peace.

The two looked on with relief as their daughters went upstairs together.

Zane wanted to follow, but Clarence–who had already guessed their parents‘ intentions–held him back.

Upstairs.

Instead of going into her room, Lydia stopped in front of Claudia’s door.

That room had once been a guest room. After Lydia moved into the household, Claudia gave up her bedroom so Lydia could have it.

Lydia had said she wanted Claudia’s room because from its window she could see the tree her mother had planted in the garden.

As a little girl, Claudia had felt hurt, but Lydia no longer had her mom. So Claudia gave in. If it made Lydia happy, that was enough.

And what was meant to be temporary lasted more than ten years.

But Lydia’s ambition had grown far beyond just a bedroom.

“I’m sorry, Claudia,” Lydia said lightly. “My closet was too small, so Dad had workers expand it. Mom asked me to stay in your room for now. You don’t mind, do you?”

She pushed the door open. Inside, there was no sign of anyone living there.

Verify captcha to read the contentVerify