CHAPTER FIFTY TWO - PETTY RIVALRIES

"So, how long have you worked for Erik?" Anna asked, trying to keep her tone casual. Maria chuckled. "Oh, child, longer than you've been alive, I'd wager. The Fairchilds... they're a special family." Before Anna could press for more details, a cold voice cut through the kitchen. "Well, isn't this charming?" Anna turned to see Vanessa leaning against the doorframe, her lips curled in a sneer. "Playing house already, are we?" "I was just helping with dinner," Anna replied, striving to keep her voice even. Vanessa sauntered into the kitchen, her heels clicking on the tile. "How... domestic. I'm sure Erik will be thrilled to see his little pet fitting in so well." Anna felt her cheeks burn with anger and embarrassment. "I'm not anyone's pet." "Of course not, darling," Vanessa cooed, her voice dripping with false sweetness. She reached for a pot on the stove. "Oh dear, how clumsy of me!" Before Anna could react, a wave of hot soup splashed across her shirt. She gasped, stumbling bac