Chapter 24:
The three-story villa sprawled over a thousand square meters, not counting the front yard and back garden. Its decor blended modern elegance with simplicity, making it both luxurious and refined.
“Mr. Sanderson! Mrs. Sanderson!” A petite woman hurried over and leaped into Skyla’s arms, trying to act cute.
“I just woke up and couldn’t replace you. Where did you both go?” Her pout was adorable, and her voice was sweet and sugary.
Harlee wondered who this woman was since she had only heard she had five older brothers, not any sisters. Then, Harlee noticed the woman glancing at her from Skyla’s shoulder with a wary and hostile look, like a territorial animal ready to defend its space against an intruder.
Harlee remained expressionless. She hadn’t expected the Sanderson family to have such a troublesome character.
“Oh, look at you, acting still like a child even at this age,” Skyla laughed, unaware of Etta Cruz’s challenging gaze on Harlee. She gently pushed Etta away.
“Aren’t you worried about being made fun of?”
Despite her words, it was clear Skyla was fond of Etta.
“Mrs. Sanderson, I’ll always be a child in front of you, be it now or in the future,” Etta said, sticking her tongue out and pouting playfully.
“Well, have it your way then.” Skyla shook her head, stepping aside to introduce Harlee.
“This is Harlee, my precious daughter. She just got back and is still getting used to things.”
“Please keep her company,” Lonnie said, looking at Etta with warmth.
“You’re about the same age, so you might get along better than with us.
The tales you love are at gⱯlnσν𝓮ℓs․cøm
Etta, please look after Harlee for us.”
“Of course! I’ll get along great with Harlee!” Etta declared, her face lighting up with what appeared to be a sweet, innocent smile. If Harlee hadn’t just sensed Etta’s earlier hostility, she might have been fooled.
Etta’s performance was far more convincing than Adelina’s.
“It’s nice to meet you, Harlee. I’m Etta Cruz. Just call me Etta, like Mr. and Mrs. Sanderson do,” Etta said to Harlee.
“If you need anything, just ask me. I grew up in this house and know it like the back of my hand. It’s totally normal not to know your way around when you first arrive, so don’t hesitate to reach out. I’ll always be here to help!”
“Okay,” Harlee replied coolly.
Seeing Etta’s enthusiasm, Lonnie and Skyla smiled more broadly. They truly hoped Harlee would settle in quickly at their home.
“Oops! It’s almost time for dinner. Let’s go! We have delicious roast lamb chops tonight,” Etta said, acting like a food enthusiast as she tugged on Harlee’s parents. Taking a few steps, she turned around and called back to Harlee, “Harlee, come try the lamb chops! I love roast lamb chops. Mrs. Sanderson especially had them flown in from Emberland. I’ve heard they’re amazing!”
Etta leaned toward Skyla.
“Thank you, Mrs. Sanderson. You’re so good to me.”
Skyla playfully tapped her nose.
“You’ve always been a foodie. Now you know to appreciate us.”
“Of course! I know you and Mr. Sanderson have always treated me well. I’ll always remember your kindness.” Etta snuggled in closer as she spoke.
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