Chapter 32

"Aunt? What are you doing here?" Ruby asked in surprise, looking at Lillian standing outside the door. "Come in, come in!" Lillian smiled, taking in the room with a glance before stepping inside. "Please, Aunt, have a seat. Let me get you some tea." Ruby helped her to the sofa. Ruby placed the teacup gently in Lillian’s hands and sat down beside her. "Aunt, is there something you need?" Lillian stroked the teacup and, noticing Ruby's swollen red eyes, asked, "What’s going on? Have you been crying?" Ruby smiled weakly. "No, Aunt, I'm fine." Lillian reached out to gently touch her head. "Did Eric bully you? If that's the case, you tell me. I won’t let him get away with it." Ruby laughed awkwardly. "No, Aunt, it's not Eric's fault." "Then what’s wrong?" Lillian asked, puzzled. "Whatever it is, just tell me." Ruby sniffled, biting her lip as she hesitated. "Aunt... I