Chapter 8 Claiming What's Hers
The smile on Clara Bennett's lips froze, a faint shadow of sorrow brushing her heart.
Sunny Lin wasn't wrong—marriage was a lifetime commitment, and here she was, diving in headfirst without even a proper romance to her name. Hadn't she just tossed her whole life's happiness into the wind?
Still...
Clara Bennett pressed her lips together, forcing a light laugh into the phone. "It's not that bad, come on! Honestly, I should thank Mason Reed. If he hadn't married me, I wouldn't be getting this thirty-thousand-dollar dowry!"
As long as her mother's illness could be treated, as long as her brother could study and live without worry—that was her truest happiness.
"Alright, gotta go!" Clara Bennett rushed to end the call. "I'm heading home today to pick up the money. I'll let you know when I've got it!"
She carefully tucked her phone into her backpack and soon arrived at one of Harrington's busiest commercial streets. Standing on the sidewalk, watching the bustling crowds and endless traffic, she felt like she'd stepped into another lifetime.
"Well, well, look who's back—the little sister!" Evelyn Bennett's sharp voice dripped with mockery as she descended the staircase, sizing Clara Bennett up with a haughty smirk.
How had these past few days treated her?
The thought of Clara Bennett married to a penniless thug—a local nobody with a reputation—sent a thrill of glee through Evelyn Bennett.
From childhood, she'd always felt outshone by Clara Bennett.
Even in hand-me-down clothes from years past, people still called Clara pretty.
Clara's gentle nature drew everyone in, while Evelyn struggled to win the same affection.
And in school? Clara's grades left Evelyn in the dust.
Evelyn Bennett had seen her as a thorn in her side since forever. Even though Clara never meant her harm, Evelyn seized every chance to grind her down, to make her squirm.
This substitute marriage had finally rid Evelyn of her rival, but it wasn't enough. She wanted to see Clara Bennett broken, humiliated.
"So, little sister, how's married life treating you?" Evelyn Bennett grabbed her hand with fake warmth, her smile laced with venom. "I hear old-fashioned marriages were all arranged—couples didn't even meet until the wedding night. Hah! Your big day sure had that vintage charm, didn't it?"
Clara Bennett managed a dry laugh, gently pulling her hand free.
She had no love for this house. All she wanted was to grab the money and leave, cutting ties with the Bennetts for good.
"Rumor has it your husband's done time for brawling," Evelyn Bennett said, her eyes glinting with disdain, a smirk tugging at her lips. "So, what's he up to now? Got a real job? How's he supposed to support you without one?"
She paused, then grinned. "If he's desperate, I could help him out! I've got connections—how about construction work, hauling bricks? Or maybe the docks, lugging cargo? Oh, wait—there's a security gig open at the company. We need a guard dog; he'd fit right in!"
Clara Bennett snapped her head up, locking eyes with her.
Evelyn Bennett faltered. The Clara she knew was a pushover, always taking it on the chin. But today, there was something new in that gaze—something sharp.
Clara Bennett took a deep breath, staring Evelyn down, her words clear and steady.
"My husband may have his flaws, but that doesn't stop him from providing.
He's got no trouble supporting us. And if he ever needs work, he sure won't come begging you.
Those 'great jobs' you're so proud of? Save them for your future husband. "
"You—"
Evelyn Bennett's face twisted. "Who do you think you're talking to, Clara?"
"What's wrong?" Clara Bennett replied coolly. "Construction, dock work, guard dog duty—aren't those the amazing opportunities you suggested? You offer them to my husband like it's a favor, but when I say keep them for your fiancé, suddenly it's not sisterly love?"
Evelyn Bennett bristled, fury bubbling up. She'd never seen Clara Bennett's tongue so sharp.
"Hah! That kind of man—only you'd cling to him like he's some prize!"
Evelyn Bennett rolled her eyes, pursed her lips, and sashayed upstairs, tossing a cold snort over her shoulder. "Don't think I don't know why you're here today... Too bad Dad's not home. You've wasted your trip!"
"What?"
Clara Bennett's heart sank, a chill of dread creeping in.