The Kiss that Sparked it All (Ellinor and Theo) novel Chapter 2755

"Who's spreading rumors? It's all out in the open, isn't it? Everybody's talking, so why can't I? Besides, you brought this on yourself. If your mom was still around, I wouldn't have anything to say. But who told her to check out so early?

Now the task of finding someone willing to take you off our hands falls on my mom. You might not get it 'cause you don't have one, but it breaks my heart."

Madeline was smug, knowing she always had one up on Regina in this department.

But then, out of nowhere, Regina's expression changed, and teardrops started rolling down from the corners of her eyes. She was usually so composed, but now, with her eyes rimmed red from crying, she looked even more pitiable.

While Madeline was frowning, wondering what Regina was up to, a voice called out from upstairs.

"Madeline, is this how we talk to Regina?"

Madeline flinched. She turned around and the moment she saw Francis, she knew what Regina was playing at.

"Dad, when did you get back?" Madeline's smile couldn't have been more forced, and Imogen, who had been at Francis's side, wasn't looking too happy either. She reached out to link arms with Francis but he dodged her with an uplifted arm.