The Prison-Made Queen novel Chapter 98

Before Leilani went abroad, to thank them for taking her shopping and treating her, she had given them some of her custom-blended calming drink, as she didn't have anything expensive to give at the time.

"I'm glad they liked it. It wasn't anything valuable anyway. If I get the chance, I'll mix some more for them."

"Okay! Thanks!" Since the items weren't expensive, Judie agreed readily.

Exchanging favors was how relationships grew closer. Judie held Leilani’s hand as they found a restaurant and sat down.

"By the way! When you're done with this busy stretch, let's go shopping together? I know a new dessert shop that's amazing!"

Leilani always found it hard to refuse Judie’s warmth, so she nodded with a smile. "Okay, I'll contact you when I'm free."

"It's a promise!" Judie held out her pinky, insisting on a pinky swear.

Leilani was helpless but cooperated, hooking her finger around Judie’s, a rare look of relaxation in her eyes.

Just like that, Leilani's first dinner out back in the country wrapped up nicely.

...

Two days later. At the main gate of Celestial Heights, security guards and property management staff were on high alert, blocking a group of aggressive people.

"Do you know who we are? You dare stop us?" Zadie’s shrill voice pierced the air. In her high heels and exquisite makeup, her face was full of anger, her eyes looking at the security guard with disdain. "Does that wretched girl Leilani live here? Tell her to get out here!"

Leilani didn't stop, barely giving them a glance as she walked straight toward the complex.

"You heartless thing!" Shaking with rage, Zadie tried to push past the guard to rush at her. "We raised you for so many years, and you help outsiders bully your own family?"

Leilani finally stopped, turning slowly, her eyes cold as ice. "Family?" Her lips curled in a mocking arc. "Didn't I sever ties with you a long time ago?"

Hackett exploded in rage. "You wretch! What kind of attitude is that?"

Josiah also reached his limit; the public scrutiny was unbearable. He strode forward, reaching out to grab Leilani’s arm. "Leilani, don't go too far! If you have something to say, let's go to your place. Don't embarrass us in public."