Watching You Burn In Regret novel Chapter 276

Zena refused to believe she was at fault. "She was the one who was disobedient! What did I do wrong? You can't polish a turd! I have multiple children to raise and a company to run. Do you really think I have the time and energy to waste on someone so defiant?"

She slammed her hands on the table and shot to her feet, her voice rising to a shrill pitch. "Just look at her, Dad! What does she have? I told her to learn ballet and equestrianism like Carla, but no, she insisted on painting. Does painting put food on the table or clothes on her back? Even after marrying into the Crestwell family, she's still useless. She doesn't even know how to be a proper lady of leisure! It's only a matter of time before they get sick of her."

In the past, such an attack would have devastated Seren. But now, having severed ties with Zena, the words had no effect. It was like listening to a stranger spout ridiculous, self-serving nonsense. It was both pathetic and laughable.

Seren held her head high, meeting Zena's furious gaze without flinching. "Why should I be a canary in a gilded cage just to please you? I want to follow my own path and build my own career. I am not useless."

"Your own path?" Zena let out a cold, scornful laugh. "Still so stubborn. You're a lost cause!"

Before Seren could respond, Old Mr. Rutledge's voice cut through the air, sharp and resonant. "The only one who is useless, stubborn, and a lost cause is you." He fixed his piercing gaze on Zena. "Seren's paintings have won countless awards since she was a child. She recently sold a single piece for two hundred and forty thousand dollars. She's still young, and her potential is limitless.

"And you? I originally planned to give Rutledge Group to Susan. She's level-headed and has the Brewer family behind her—she was the perfect choice. But she insisted, giving up the nomination for you, saying you could handle it. Now look at what you've done to this company! The mess it's in is mostly your fault, not just Carla's. You've had our full support and protection, and you've accomplished nothing. How dare you call Seren useless?"

Zena realized then that they were all united against her. No one was on her side. Without another word, she turned and stormed out of the room.

Susan started to call after her, but Old Mr. Rutledge stopped her. "She's lost in her own delusions," he said coldly. "Words are useless. Let her see for herself what becomes of the daughter she so carefully groomed, and what becomes of Seren. Only when she sees the difference with her own eyes will she ever feel regret."

Susan fell silent. He was right. One was a beautiful but empty vase, the other a talented and capable woman. The outcome was clear. Zena would undoubtedly live to regret this day.