78 Revealing the Hidden Anguish

The atmosphere in the Everett mansion was tense and heavy, charged with unspoken accusations and seething emotions. Lily stood, her face still stinging from Stella's unexpected slap, her eyes a blend of shock and defiance. Stella Everett, the tough-talking matriarch of the Everett family, stood rigidly, her anger palpable. "You think you can play games with our family? You've been involved with Daniel all along, and yet you have the audacity to marry into our family as if nothing happened!" Lily, regaining her composure, met Stella's furious gaze. "Mrs. Everett, with all due respect, my past with Daniel was over long before I married Michael. I entered this family believing I could start anew, not to be accused unjustly." Michael, who had been a silent observer until now, interjected, his voice calm yet firm. "Mother, Lily is right. Her past with Daniel has nothing to do with her role in our family." Stella turned to Michael, her expression softening slightly, yet her voice