Chapter 2: The Roots of Bitter Ivy
The next morning, the mansion felt undeniably lighter, as if a toxic fog had been lifted from the air. Over breakfast, Vincent finally explained the painful truth. Lily wasn't just a random teenager staying in the guest room; she was the orphaned daughter of Vincent’s late sister. When Lily had moved in six months prior, carrying nothing but her beige backpack and dreams of attending UCLA, Vanessa had seen her not as a traumatized child, but as a threat.
"Vanessa's world was built on possession and control," Vincent explained, pouring Lily a cup of tea. "She saw my affection for you, my desire to fund your education, as resources stolen from her. Framing you was her desperate, cruel attempt to maintain absolute power."
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Lily traced the rim of her teacup, processing the malice she had barely escaped. "She wanted me in jail, Vincent. Over a watch."
"She wanted you erased," Vincent corrected gently. "But the truth is a stubborn thing, Lily. Now, your only job is to focus on that hoodie you wear. You are going to college."
