Chapter 281

The moment Shirley heard Martha's voice, her first instinct was guilt, so she quickly released her grip on Carlisle's hand. She feared that if Martha was displeased, she might once again threaten to throw her and Ivy out, and no one would be left to protect her. Shirley forced down the bitterness in her heart and put on a flattering smile as she looked up at Martha. "Mrs. Zachman Senior, why are you still awake at this hour? Did I disturb you?" Afraid of being misunderstood, she quickly explained, "I just saw that Carlisle was hurt… I only wanted to check on him—" She was interrupted by Martha's sarcastic, almost mocking expression. Shirley's face turned pale, and the look in Martha's eyes made it feel as though she saw through all of Shirley's actions, leaving her uncomfortable and unable to continue speaking. Martha adjusted her shawl and sneered. "I've known exactly what kind of person you are. Allowing you to stay at the Zachman residence was already showing mercy. "You'd