Chapter 6 - Shadow of the Past
Three weeks passed like a calm breeze.
The dark bruise under Sarah's eye had completely faded, leaving behind smooth, glowing skin.
Her cheeks had regained their natural rosy color.
Every morning, she woke up early with a smile, eager to start her day.
She began baking fresh bread and pastries in her small kitchen.
To express her gratitude, she often brought warm blueberry muffins down to Sam and his wife Martha.
Martha loved Sarah like a daughter, often watching baby Leo while Sarah ran quick errands.
Mark worked long hours at the auto repair shop.
His hands were often stained with engine oil, but his heart was light.
He was proud to earn every dollar that kept his family safe and fed.
One Tuesday afternoon, the roar of a high-end luxury sedan interrupted the work in the garage.
A sleek black car pulled up near the workshop bay.
The driver's door opened, and Evelyn stepped out.
She wore a crisp designer coat and dark sunglasses.
She looked around the greasy garage floor with obvious disgust.
Mark was working under a silver pickup truck, his back resting on a rolling creeper.
Hearing the footsteps, he slid out from under the vehicle.
He wiped his hands on a grease rag as he stood up.
"Mother," Mark said, his tone neutral and calm.
Evelyn stopped a few feet away, holding her designer handbag tight.
"Look at you, Mark," Evelyn said, shaking her head in disapproval.
"Working in filth, living above a garage like a beggar."
"The entire family is talking about this disaster."
"You are embarrassing our family name."
Mark looked at his mother calmly, unaffected by her words.
"I am earning an honest living, Mother," Mark said quietly.
"And for the first time in my life, my home is peaceful."
Evelyn took a step closer, her voice dropping into a demanding tone.
"This foolishness has gone on long enough," she said sharply.
"Apologize to me, pack your things, and bring Sarah and my grandson back home."
"I will forgive your disrespect on the birthday night."
Mark looked at Evelyn's stern face.
He realized then that she hadn't changed at all.
She didn't care about his happiness or Sarah's well-being.
She only cared about control and appearances.
"I have nothing to apologize for, Mother," Mark said firmly.
"We are never coming back to your house."
Evelyn's face flushed with anger.
"If you stay here, I will cut off your inheritance!" she threatened.
"You won't get a single penny from the family estate!"
Mark smiled faintly, feeling a strange sense of freedom.
"Keep the money, Mother," Mark said calmly.
"My family's peace is worth far more than your fortune."
May you like
He turned his back on her and walked back toward his toolbox.
Evelyn stood frozen in disbelief, realizing her power over her son was completely broken.
