Ansel’s father’s mocking words echoed in his mind, pulling him into old wounds, but the sharp sound of heels hitting the cold marble floor snapped him out of it. He didn’t need to look up to know who was approaching—his stepmother’s presence was always announced by the clinking of her flashy jewelry.She strode into the room with her head held high, diamonds glinting at her neck, wrists, and ears. Ansel didn’t move. His face hardened as she came closer.“Well, well,” she said with a voice laced with false sweetness. “Look who’s back. Here to ask for money again, Ansel?”Ansel slowly looked her over, a cold sneer twisting his lips. His eyes locked on the woman who had torn his family apart so many years ago, the woman who had driven a wedge between his parents, ultimately destroying the family. He felt that familiar surge of anger rising, but he kept his voice level.“Keep. My. Name. Out. Of. Your. Mouth,” he said sharply, his words cutting through the air.His stepmother didn’t flinch
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