Although Bernice put on a calm facade, Jacqueline knew her aunt was unhappy and forcing a smile. She could also see that Ethan Hawthorne wasn't good to her aunt. Their relationship was less like a couple's and more like that of a boss and an employee.
At home, Ethan Hawthorne was imperious and his word was law. If Bernice displeased him in the slightest, his face would darken. Jacqueline felt her aunt had a difficult life, constantly catering to Ethan. Her aunt's true personality was anything but gentle and submissive.
But in front of Ethan, her aunt had to feign being a virtuous and gentle woman. Jacqueline couldn't stand such a life, but she was just like her aunt now—meek and subservient before him, not daring to show the slightest bit of temper.
'Ethan is their breadwinner, after all. It's only natural they have to grovel.'
'If only I could earn this much money myself, then I wouldn't have to walk on eggshells around anyone anymore.'
"Time to eat,"
