My Ex-Husband Wants Me Again novel Chapter 8

It was early spring and chilly at night. Pearl had turned off the heater in Tina's room. Tina felt chilled to her bones.

Tina glared at the culprit and roared, "Pearl!"

"You seem to be having a great time. Let me add to your excitement. How about that? Is it thrilling enough? If not, I can have someone bring in some toilet water for you," Pearl mocked.

The music continued blasting. Pearl threw the tub at the stereo, knocking it over. The loud noise startled Tina. The music stopped abruptly.

"What's happening?" Ralph was woken by the din and rushed over from the other guest room in his sleepwear. He was furious to see Tina soaked and bullied, but his tone softened when he turned to Pearl. "Pearl, why the fuss?"

"Dad, she poured water on me. I'm freezing..." Tina shivered uncontrollably, speaking before Pearl could. She added, "It was cold, and I couldn't sleep. I thought I'd listen to music, but Pearl wouldn't allow it." Tina looked at Ralph tearfully, hoping Ralph would back her up.

Ralph was shivering too. Though he was angry, he didn't dare to scold Pearl. He coaxed Tina, "Pearl has just returned. Cut her some slack. Don't argue with her."

Tina didn't expect her father's change in attitude.

"What are you expecting, Tina? This is my house." Pearl laughed at Tina's dumbfounded expression. She raised her eyebrows coldly. "Are you done acting?"

Ralph and Tina's faces flushed with embarrassment and humiliation.

Pearl eyed Tina lazily. "If there's a next time, I'll throw you into the pool. Perhaps that'll clear your mind." She glanced at them. "My house, my rules. I'm a light sleeper and can't stand noise at night. Can't stand it? Leave." With that, Pearl left.

"Pearl." Ralph asked meekly, "The heating has been broken for days. When will it be fixed? It's cold."

"I'm not the repairman. How should I know?" Pearl walked past them, amused. She had much more waiting for them.

"Dad, look at her..." Tina pouted, pointing at Pearl.

"Alright, Tina. Chill..." Ralph calmed her down.