Chapter 99 Biting Sarcasm

"Perfect timing! I prepared a discharge gift for you," Helena said excitedly. On the coffee table in the living room sat several exquisitely wrapped gift boxes. Helena pulled Madeline over. "Come take a look. These are all from your father and me to celebrate your recovery! Don't ever get sick again, my precious girl. We were so worried." Watching her parents present each carefully chosen gift as if showing off treasured prizes, a warm feeling spread through Madeline's chest, and the lingering fatigue seemed to fade away. This feeling, being loved and indulged without reservation by family, was still new and precious to her. "Thank you," she said softly. "There's no need for that. We're family." Helena wrapped an arm around her, her eyes full of affection. Just then, there was a sound from the hallway. Lisa stepped in on high heels. The moment she saw the warm, indulgent scene in the living room—especially Madeline surrounded by their parents, with a table full of gifts laid o