Chapter 19 42 % Graham Villa was a lavishly decorated estate , a perfect display of wealth .
The air carried the faint scent of expensive wood polish , mingling with the rich aroma of dinner being prepared .
Mrs.
Galloway , welcome home , a maid greeted at the entrance .

Inside the grand dining room , the Graham family , who had just sat down for their dinner , were momentarily stunned by her arrival .
But the surprise only lasted a beat before they all stood up , greeting her with enthusiastic smiles .
Rosalie , sweetie , youre back , Claudia beamed , reaching out to grasp Rosalies hands in a gesture of affectionate welcome .
Why didnt you tell me in advance ? She was playing the part of the doting stepmother to perfection , her eyes soft and her tone sugary sweet .
If Rosalie hadnt uncovered the truth , she might have actually been touched by this warm reception .

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But now , as she met Claudias sickeningly sweet smile , her own expression remained indifferent .
With practiced ease , Rosalie withdrew her hands from Claudias grasp and curved her lips into a cool smile .
This is my home .
I can come back whenever I want .
What , do I need to notify you in advance now ? Claudia stiffened , momentarily at a loss for words .

A flicker of displeasure flashed in her eyes .
For years , shed played the role of the loving stepmother so well that it had become second nature .
And with how useful Rosalie still was to them , she couldnt afford to drop the act just yet .
So , Claudia swallowed her irritation and forced her usual warmth back onto her face .
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