Chapter 298
"Up so early, Clea?"
Thora's face softened into a gentle smile. Clea nodded, not thinking much of it.
"Yeah, Ms. White. I just got up and saw you taking Miss Cavendish for a walk in the backyard."
Clea's gaze fell lovingly on Harper.
"Ms. White, you're so good to Miss Cavendish. Getting some fresh air in the morning is great for kids."
Thora smiled modestly, her lips pressed together.
"I just think it's not good for kids to sleep in too late. Harper went to bed early last night, so I thought I'd take her for a walk in the garden."
Clea casually agreed, watching Harper cling to Thora, clearly dependent on her. She couldn't help but feel emotional.
Harper used to rely on no one but Christina.
But after everything that happened, Harper not only forgot everyone but also started seeing another woman as her mother, relying on and caring for her deeply.
It was truly bittersweet.
But then again...
Watching Thora speak so gently to Harper, Clea sighed helplessly.
Everyone in the apartment knew Thora was incredibly kind to Harper.
Yet Christina had asked Clea to keep a close eye on Thora, to ensure her affection for Harper was genuine.
Clea was puzzled.
Their relationship was so good; it was obvious Thora genuinely cared for Harper.
What was there to watch?
But regardless of her thoughts, Clea was employed by Christina and William.
She had to follow their instructions.
Not thinking much more, Clea turned her attention back to her own tasks.
Unbeknownst to everyone, Thora held Harper's hand, ensuring no one was around before turning to Harper.
"Harper, it's almost time for breakfast. Your dad and Ms. Windsor made it together, so you need to eat it nicely, okay?"
Harper's face fell instantly, unhappy.
"I don't like Ms. Windsor being with Dad. I don't want to eat her food. She'll definitely take Dad away!"
Thora smiled with satisfaction but gently persuaded Harper.
"Harper, Ms. Windsor won't take Dad away. No one can take away your mom and dad."
Harper nodded firmly, gripping Thora's hand tightly.
"Don't worry, Mom. I'll help you get rid of that bad woman!"
Thora stroked Harper's hair, a flash of malice and triumph in her eyes where Harper couldn't see.
Just wait. She would reclaim everything that belonged to her!
Soon, breakfast was ready. When Thora led Harper into the living room, Christina immediately spotted Harper.
"Harper, come eat."
Christina tried to make her expression gentle, smiling.
But Harper pouted, glaring at Christina angrily.
"I don't want to eat your food. You're trying to take Dad away. Go away, I hate you!"
With that, Harper stepped forward, pushing Christina aside and shielding Thora behind her, her face full of vigilance.
"I won't let you bully my mom. If you try to take Dad away, I'll make sure Mom gets justice!"
The sudden change left Christina stunned.
She watched her beloved daughter confront her, favoring another woman.
She could endure it.
After all, Harper had lost her memory; everything had to be taken slowly.
But Harper's eyes, filled with dislike and hatred, mostly anger, were hard for Christina to accept.
Her eyes reddened, and she instinctively stepped back, feeling a deep sense of grievance.
William quickly stepped forward, supporting Christina.
"Christina, don't rush. We need to handle this slowly."
He then looked at Harper, not sparing a glance for Thora.
"Harper, who taught you to say that?"
"No one taught me!"
Harper pouted angrily, seeing William holding Christina's hand. She stepped forward, pulling William's hand away from Christina's arm.
"Dad, I don't want you to be with Ms. Windsor. She's a bad woman, trying to take you away from Mom!"
William felt uncomfortable but didn't scold Harper. He glanced at Thora, his eyes filled with suspicion.
"Ms. White, everything was fine yesterday. What's going on with Harper today?"
Though William didn't say much, Thora could feel his doubt.
She bit her lip, looking helpless.
"I don't know. Everything was fine when she went to bed, and she seemed normal this morning. But just now..."
Thora looked sadly at Christina.
"Ms. Windsor, I didn't teach Harper anything bad. I'm really sorry for what happened. I'm truly sorry!"
Seeing Thora's genuine sadness and guilt, Christina had her doubts but couldn't think much.
Being hated by her daughter made her heart ache, leaving no room for other thoughts.
"It's okay."
Christina sniffed, forcing back her tears.
She managed a smile at Harper, who looked at her with caution, afraid she might hurt Thora. Christina lowered her voice.
"Harper, I don't want to take your mom or dad away."
Christina's voice was strained.
"If you think I'm trying to take your mom and dad away, I'm sorry. Okay?"
Thora and Harper were both taken aback by the sudden apology.
Harper looked confused, not expecting this.
But since Christina apologized, Harper blinked and reluctantly agreed.
"Okay, as long as you don't take my mom and dad away, I won't hate you."
"But you have to apologize to my mom first. If she forgives you, then I will too."