Chapter 228
A week flew by after their fun shopping trip, and they all returned to Wigocia.
Antonio was eager to show Michelle around the Kaufman’s home.
Camille Lawson was perched in the vintage–decorated living room, turning a blind eye to Michelle’s polite hello. She gazed at Antonio with a face etched with disappointment. “I guess I didn’t do such a great job raising you.
“Grace’s not even cold in her grave, and you’re already showing off her dad’s love child.
“Grace was like your sister, for heaven’s sake. You two grew up together. How can you be so heartless?”
Camille and Grace’s mom had been thick as thieves, and after her friend’s death, Camille had taken Grace under her wing like Grace was her own.
Antonio shot Michelle a comforting glance and replied nonchalantly, “Mom, you’re fooled by Grace.
“The fire? That was just her way of trying to get attention. She’s all bark and no bite. She’d never really hurt herself.”
Camille fixed her son with a long, hard look, then let out a sigh, and shook her head.
She said, “If you don’t trust me, then trust the police. Take Tyler down to the station and pick up Grace’s things.
“See for yourself‘ if‘ Grace was lying!”
Antonio’s face flickered with emotion, but his voice was as firm as steel. “Not a chance. Grace set that fire on purpose, just trying to get Tyler and me over.”
Michelle’s voice was barely a whisper. “Mrs. Kaufman, you got Antonio wrong. Grace duped Antonio in the past. That’s why he’s not buying what she says.”
“Go see for yourself, and you’ll know if it’s true or not,” said Camille.
Antonio’s chest heaved sharply. He nodded. “Fine, I’ll go check it out. I’m curious to see what schemes she’s cooked up this time!”
He marched toward the door. Yet, he’d left Michelle behind.
Only when Michelle came hustling out, gasping for air, did he pause.
A sudden, uneasy feeling washed over him for no apparent reason.
It was like a weight was pressing down on his chest, making breathing at struggle.