Chapter 139

Author's POV With just a few carefully chosen words, Victoria had ignited the tension between Scarlett and Marcia. The effect was immediate. Scarlett turned toward Marcia, then glanced at Mona with narrowed eyes. "Mother, did you really buy such expensive things for this woman?" The truth was that Marcia didn't particularly care for Scarlett either. She acted as though her son was some perfect specimen no woman deserved. Even though Scarlett had practically thrown herself at Ethan, Marcia never warmed to her. Scarlett constantly flaunted her status as a member of the Sutton family, speaking disrespectfully to Marcia at every opportunity. Mona, on the other hand, knew exactly how to play the game—constantly flattering Marcia, praising her taste and wisdom until the older woman practically preened under the attention. Marcia hadn't expected Victoria to summon Scarlett. The sight of her daughter-in-law immediately soured her mood—that woman was nothing but trouble. Meanwhile, Grace hadn't