Chapter 16

Victoria Lowell trembled with rage, her fingers gripping the sofa armrest. "You ungrateful wretch!"

"Exactly. I'm ungrateful. What can you do about it?" Sophia Laurent curled her lips in a cold smile.

Victoria paled, collapsing onto the couch.

"What sin did I commit to deserve a daughter like you? You don't even understand basic filial duty!"

Sophia scoffed. "Some people don't deserve to be parents."

The whole neighborhood had witnessed her suffering in Emily's household.

The truth was there for anyone who cared to ask.

Yet they chose to believe that hypocritical couple over their own flesh and blood.

"You—" Victoria gasped for breath.

Richard Lowell stepped forward to mediate. "Sophia, don't speak to your mother like that. She just expresses herself poorly. What parent doesn't love their child?"

"We're no longer related." Sophia's voice remained calm.

"Blood ties can't be severed that easily." Richard maintained his gentle smile.

Sophia studied him for several seconds before suddenly laughing. "Just say it. Why did you come today?"

Richard exhaled in relief. "I'm glad you're being reasonable."

A flicker of mockery crossed Sophia's eyes.

"I heard you froze your mother's bank card?"

Sophia arched an eyebrow. "Yes. Is there a problem?"

She wouldn't just freeze the account—she'd reclaim every cent Victoria had spent without authorization.

Those unauthorized expenses were legally recoverable.

Richard frowned. "Now that you're successful, supporting your parents is only right."

"Is that all?" Sophia's tone dripped with disdain.

"There's more." Richard's expression darkened. "I heard you joined Pearl Group to target Lowell Entertainment?"

Sophia burst out laughing. "William told you that?"

She glanced at William Lowell standing nearby.

"First, my bank account is my business."

She'd spend her money however she pleased—no emotional blackmail would work.

"Second, where I work is my choice."

"Third, Lin Yuan Group's project is open bidding. May the best company win."

Their faces twisted at her words.

William was the first to explode in furious curses.