Chapter 77

At the dining table, the maid had already begun serving dishes when Cecilia was about to follow, Olive grabbed her arm. "Cecilia, have your meal first!" "Right now, with parents in such a state, going there won't make much of a difference..." Talking about Alston's temperament, in fact, he resembled Corin in every way. They were both obstinate and domineering to the extreme. When they set their minds on something, no amount of persuasion could sway them! Cecilia halted her steps, nodded at Olive, and sat down at the table with Gladys in her arms. Her mind was elsewhere as she scooped rice into Gladys's bowl, and from the study came a commotion! Crack! Although the crisp sound had become muffled by the time it reached the dining room, it didn't hinder those present from recognizing it—it was the sound of a whip! Cecilia's hand trembled, her fingertips turning pale. Gladys bit her lip, her eyes, clear black and white orbs, gazing at Cecilia. Children are sensitive; she instinctively sens