Burned Once, Never Again (Niamh and Castiel)

Naomi was calm and composed even after what had happened at Maplewood the night before.

Renee was fond of the idea of having Naomi as her daughter-in-law. Even if Castiel were to cheat on her in the future, Naomi could handle it with grace and poise, preserving their family's reputation. "Just look at Naomi!" The contrast only made things worse, and Renee couldn't help but feel more irked by Niamh's rebelliousness. She had conveniently forgotten that Niamh used to treat her like a queen.

"Since you like her that much, you should keep her."

With that, Niamh turned on her heel and left without sparing the fuming Renee another glance. After being married to Castiel for so Many yo:

she was used to her sharp tongue.

Renee was so infuriated that her chest ached. "Unbelievable! Look at

what she's become! After all the time I've invested in her, this is how she repays me!"

Her words fell on deaf ears.

"I should've known that a commoner like her would never become a

lady of high society!" Renee's frustration mounted as she continued.

Niamh listened to the insults directed at her, a mocking smile playing on her lips. Paying them no mind, she walked out the door.

After Niamh left, Naomi consoled Renee, "There, there, Madam

Jamison. She's about to divorce Castiel. There's no need for you to concern yourself with what she does or what kind of person she is."

"You're right, they're about to get a divorce. But just look at what she's become! It feels like all the time and effort I put in have gone to waste!ConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

"I understand. You've always been so good to her-it's her own fault for not appreciating you!" Naomi echoed Renee's sentiments, which helped reduce some of the anger Renee felt toward Niamh.

Renee found herself increasingly fond of Naomi. Yet, when she thought about how Niamh had teamed up with other people to cause such a significant loss to their family business, her chest ached again.

Sienna walked in and found Naomi and Renee baking together. From her perspective, they appeared to be getting along better than ever.

A venomous glint flickered across her beautiful eyes. She ran her fingers through her curls and walked over, her voice dripping with saccharine sweetness. "Oh, Ms. Lawson, I had no idea you were here to keep my mom company today!" Renee's expression softened a little when she saw Sienna. "Naomi always finds time to visit me, unlike you, who's always off somewhere,

she chided playfully.

"Haven't I spent enough time with you, Mom? I even canceled my trip abroad just to be with you!" Sienna pouted, wrapping her arms around Renee's arm.

This tactic was a surefire hit with Renee. Her gaze softened as she remarked, "Oh, you just know how to sweet-talk your way into my heart!"

Sienna's sugar-coated words never failed to make Renee's heart swell with love.

307

Despite being an adopted child, Sienna was lavished with luxury and privilege. Within high society, she had access to almost everything that was considered the finest. Consequently, no one in their circle. dared to look down on her. "Here, have a bite," Naomi said, offering Sienna a freshly baked cookie. Renee was fond of her adopted daughter, and Naomi was always quick to notice.

Even though she didn't like Naomi, Sienna made sure to act politely and graciously in front of Renee. "Mmm, it's delicious!"

"Do you like it?"

"I do! Thank you, Ms. Lawson!"

"From now on, you should call her Naomi," Renee reminded as she ruffled Sienna's soft curls.

Renee had grown increasingly fond of Naomi. Not only was she beautiful and tall, but she was also respectful to her elders and a skilled baker.

She possessed all the grace and refinement of a heiress from a distinguished family.