Chapter 147

Mom was still just as thin, and I couldn't help but feel a pang of heartache. I silently vowed to work even harder so I could take her away from the Hastings residence as soon as possible. Mr. Hastings Senior seemed to be in a great mood today, chatting non-stop at the dinner table. "Serena did an excellent job on this task," he said, beaming at me. "You've really grown up." I was grateful for his praise and encouragement, so I responded with a sincere smile. "It's all thanks to your support, Mr. Hastings Senior, as well as Mr. Hastings' guidance." Hearing my words, Mr. Hastings Senior's smile widened. Just as he was about to say something, a mocking laugh suddenly interrupted him. "Heh, since when did you become so silver-tongued?" I was speechless. I knew Alex was teasing me, but I really wanted to sew his mouth shut. However, under Mom's anxious gaze, I forced myself to hold back. She was too emotionally fragile. Any slight tension between Alex and me would make her restles