Chapter 105

"You and Xander grew up here. It wasn't until after your parents passed that John took you back in. I really thought he'd treat you well, but turns out... he had his own selfish agenda. It's my fault, I trusted the wrong people. Vanessa, don't worry anymore, from now on, your uncle's got your back. I'll make sure you and your brother never have to suffer again." Steven' voice was full of false warmth, even dabbing at the corners of his eyes like he was wiping away tears. Vanessa could barely keep the disgust off her face. Seriously, how did this man manage to look sincere while being so fake? Their relationship was barely holding together, and yet he still put on this "loving elder" act like it wasn't painfully obvious. She shrugged casually, giving him no real reaction, but her thoughts were clear: if she and Xander had stayed in the Brooks family, things might've been worse than at John's place. Steven was way more ruthless - she knew that for a fact. As they were talking, the group