When fate plays its hand
140

Chapter 0140

“Oh my! It really is you, Miranda!” Karen’s loud, surprised voice came through the door. “I almost thought I was mistaken!”

Karen Larden, the loud neighbor next door, was known for her gossip. Her husband also taught at Earnest High, and they moved into the staff quarters the same year as Miranda’s family.

When she saw Miranda, Karen rushed over, taking in her appearance from head to toe. “Wow! Look at you! People say big cities change people, but this is something else. You’ve really made a name for yourself!”

Miranda was speechless.

Karen kept going. “Look at your outfit, your figure, and those clothes and shoes! You’re so stylish!” Karen kept up her cheerful chatter, “Miranda, it’s so great to see you’ve done well in Elgerson City! I heard you know some important people–could you help my younger sister meet someone influential?”

Miranda looked puzzled. “Help her meet whom?”

Karen leaned in, lowering her voice. “A rich man! My sister’s young and pretty, only 22. She could use a chance to meet someone successful.”

Miranda’s expression darkened. “Mrs. Larden, you’re wrong. I’m not involved in that kind of thing and don’t have connections to help you.”

Karen looked surprised. “But Miranda, we’re neighbors. If you’ve made it big, shouldn’t you help out others? It’s only right to share your good fortune.”

Miranda’s frustration showed, though she smiled tightly. “I can’t help with that, Mrs. Larden. You’re expecting too much from me.”

Seeing that Miranda kept saying no, Karen’s smile disappeared. “Oh, look at her. Now that she’s successful, she thinks she’s too good for everyone! I was just joking. What good girl would get involved with those kinds of people…”

“Mrs. Larden, watch what you’re saying!” Lionel said angrily. He tossed his bike aside and quickly stepped in front of Miranda to protect her.

His face was red with anger, and his eyes were fierce. You can say whatever you want, but you shouldn’t spread lies! My daughter is clean and innocent. It’s you who’s spreading garbage!”

“Oh, I’m spreading garbage?” Karen snapped back.

She had always had issues with the Suttons, and now her anger was spilling over. “Everyone around here knows your daughter hasn’t been home for years and is living with a rich man. It’s not just me talking. Go ahead, try to stop everyone from gossiping!”

“You-” Lionel was furious, his face red and his chest heaving. “You’re just spreading lies!”

“Enough! You think you can just silence everyone? How hypocritical!” Karen glared at Miranda. “What kind of respectable girl dresses like that? Always trying to attract men. It’s disgusting!”

Lionel’s face turned red with anger. “You–get out- He clutched his chest, having trouble breathing.

+25 BON

Chapter 0140

“Dad!” Miranda quickly gave him his blood pressure medicine.

Turning back to Karen, Miranda’s eyes were cold. “I tried to be polite since we’re neighbors, but since you’ve come to my door and insulted me, I won’t be nice anymore.”

mop from

Miranda grabbed the damp mop from the corner and swung it at Karen.

Karen screamed, “She’s hitting me–she’s hitting me!”

Karen tried to move out of the way, but most of the dirty mop water hit her.

Miranda said, “Oh, I just used this to clean the bathroom. It’s not even washed yet. Perfect timing!”

Karen’s face went white as she seemed to smell the filth. “You–Little brat! You’re horrible!”