When fate plays its hand
hand 501

Chapter 0501

When Minnie disappeared, she was already 22 years old. Even if she had been unable to control her situation back then, after more than 20 years, she would surely have found a way to contact her parents if she were still alive.

But there had been nothing–not a single call, not even a message. Yet the old couple wouldn’t listen, refusing to give up. At an age when they should have been enjoying a peaceful retirement, they were instead wandering from place to place in a foreign land

Sam felt a tug at his heart but said lightly, “Come on, let’s check out the backyard.”

“Yes, let’s go! Minnie always loved the swing set and the wisteria in the backyard,” Fiona said eagerly.

Sam held his grandmother’s arm, helping her as they walked. Halfway there, his phone rang. He glanced at the screen, noting the caller’s name.

He then subtly turned his phone so his grandmother couldn’t see it.

“Grandma, I’ll just step outside to take this call,” he said.

“Alright,” Fiona nodded.

Once he was outside the main building, Sam finally answered the call.

“Mom, what is it?” he asked.

“Why did you take so long to pick up? Nelly Garrison’s tone sounded irritated, clearly showing her impatience. “Where are you?”

Ignoring her agitation, Sam replied calmly, “I was busy, I’m outside.”

“Busy with what? Who are you with?” she demanded.

Sam frowned, “Mom, I’m not a criminal. There’s no need to interrogate me.”

*A criminal? Ha!” Nelly’s voice sharpened suddenly. “You’ve got it backward, don’t you? I’m the one treated like a criminal! All of you are on your guard against me as if I’m some kind of threat!”

“Mom, why would you say that?” Sam asked, trying to stay composed.

“I have to ask–why didn’t you tell me that your grandparents were back in the country? Nelly accused. Sam was at a loss for words,

“I knew it! You did it on purpose!” she snapped.

“Mom he sighed, feeling a wave of helplessness.

“You’re with them right now, aren’t you? I already went to the Garrison estate, and the butler told me you picked them up. Are you still going to lie to me?”

Sam’s expression hardened slightly. “Mom, please calm down. Grandma isn’t in the best emotional state Tight now. It’s better if you visit another day.”

Nelly shot back, “What do you mean by that? Just because she’s upset, I can’t come? Are you saying that

+25

Chapter 0501

seeing me would only make her feel worse? I’m her daughter! I don’t understand why you’re all treating me like the enemy!”

Over the years, her parents preferred to communicate with Sam instead of talking to her. Even when she tried to reach out, they always found some excuse to cut the conversation short.

Sam replied, “You know the reason, Mom. Do I really need to spell it out?”

“Yes, say it! I dare you to say it! I want to hear what’s really on your mind!” Nelly challenged.

Sam clenched his jaw, his face tensing. “Mom, I don’t want to argue with you,” he said, making a final attempt to keep the peace.

But she wouldn’t relent, “No, today we’re getting everything out in the open. I’m your mother, not your enemy!”

“Fine,” Sam said, taking a deep breath, speaking each word deliberately. “Because of what happened all those years ago, Grandma still holds a grudge against you. If you show up now, it’ll only agitate her and make things worse.

“The doctors have made it clear–Grandma cannot handle any more stress. Why do you think Grandpa insisted on bringing her back to this country? Do you think it was because they missed you or me?”

Nelly opened her mouth, ready to argue. Even so, she found herself at a loss for words, unable to utter a sound.

Sam quietly ended the call and returned inside.

“Sam, who was on the phone?” Fiona asked.

“It was just a business matter. It’s all sorted out now,” he replied.

“That’s good.”