Chapter 15

Charlotte 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 Charlotte's first encounter with such harsh words.

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

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

Charlotte's sniffles softened slightly. Before she could respond, Sophia's eyes burned with indignation watching Isabella comfort another child.

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

Isabella caught her wrist mid-stride.

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

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

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

Despite her rejection, Sophia couldn't bear seeing Isabella's affection directed elsewhere.

Isabella suppressed a smile.

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

Seizing the opportunity, Sophia shoved Charlotte away.

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

Holding Sophia close, Isabella 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?"

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

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

She pressed her lips into a stubborn line.

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

The gentle care melted Sophia's resistance. She nodded into Isabella's shoulder. "Okay."

Isabella kissed her cheek before turning to Charlotte. "This is Sophia, my daughter. She's sorry. Will you forgive her?"

Charlotte hesitated, still wary of Sophia's intensity. But Isabella's reassuring smile gave her courage. "Okay."

"Thank you, sweetheart." Isabella nudged Sophia. "And you?"

Sophia peeked from Isabella's embrace. "Sorry."

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

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

When Elizabeth came for Charlotte, Isabella knelt before Sophia. "All better now? Ready for class?"