Chapter 15

Maisie looked absolutely precious in her frilly pink dress, the kind of child that made strangers stop and coo. Her innocent charm naturally drew people's affection.

Calling her ugly would be nothing short of cruel.

Having been adored her entire life, this was Maisie's first encounter with such harsh words.

Tears welled up instantly as she clung to Camille's skirt.

Camille immediately scooped her up. "That's not true, sweetheart. You're absolutely beautiful. Everyone thinks so, don't they?"

Maisie's sniffles softened slightly. Before she could respond, Chloe's eyes burned with indignation watching Camille comfort another child.

"I hate you! You're not my mommy anymore!" Chloe screamed before turning to flee.

Camille caught her wrist mid-stride.

The outburst stung, but Camille refused to humiliate her daughter publicly. She pulled Chloe close, kissing her forehead. "Darling, calm down—"

The kiss momentarily soothed Chloe's rage. But then fresh tears erupted. "Then don't hug her! And don't say she's cute!"

The realization hit Camille like lightning—this was pure jealousy.

Despite her rejection, Chloe couldn't bear seeing Camille's affection directed elsewhere.

Camille suppressed a smile.

Instead of promises, she kissed Chloe's temple again and carried both girls to a quiet corner.

Seizing the opportunity, Chloe shoved Maisie away.

Though younger, Maisie lacked Chloe's possessive streak. The fiery glare intimidated her into retreating.

Holding Chloe close, Camille murmured, "My fierce little lioness, listen. You love being bold and brilliant, but some prefer being soft and sweet."

"Mocking others for being different is unkind. We respect everyone's choices. Understand?"

Camille knew her daughter's sharp mind would grasp this where others might not.

Chloe did understand. She knew she'd been cruel. But the burning jealousy remained.

She pressed her lips into a stubborn line.

Camille smoothed her hair and wiped her tears. "Mistakes happen, darling. But we learn. No more hurtful words, yes?"

The gentle care melted Chloe's resistance. She nodded into Camille's shoulder. "Okay."

Camille kissed her cheek before turning to Maisie. "This is Chloe, my daughter. She's sorry. Will you forgive her?"

Maisie hesitated, still wary of Chloe's intensity. But Camille's reassuring smile gave her courage. "Okay."

"Thank you, sweetheart." Camille nudged Chloe. "And you?"

Chloe peeked from Camille's embrace. "Sorry."

Maisie offered a timid smile. "S'okay."

With the storm passed, Camille exhaled in relief and guided both girls toward the classroom.

When Claire came for Maisie, Camille knelt before Chloe. "All better now? Ready for class?"