Chapter 36

Clara's POV

Ivy's remarks caused my eyes to enlarge.

"To start with, it is unrelated to you. Second, I have a question for you." Derek held back. "You are such a letdown; are you sure your aunt didn't have a heart attack?" He went on.

After hearing Derek's comments, I gasped. Although I was accustomed to his making fun of me, I hadn't anticipated him saying that.

Ivy was shocked by his remarks as well.

This needs to be stopped before it becomes worse.

I interrupted, saying, "My mother is in there; show some respect."

Derek was giving in little by little.

"I'd like you to go now. I don't want any fighting around my sister, who will arrive shortly." I said something.

I covered my face as if I was crying. I believe I have become used to this. I need an Oscar handed to me.

With a groan, Derek got up from his chair.

What caught me off guard was what he did next. He didn't go away as I thought he would.

Instead, he got up to hug me while softly stroking my hair. I didn't struggle with him t