When Lea returned to their table, she had every intention to abide by her mother's advice to keep her mouth shut and avoid getting into an argument with Sophia.
But Sophia was testy and seemed intent on provoking her. It was downright infuriating!
Lea glared at Sophia, her irritation evident, and snapped, "It's none of your business!"
Sophia's face stiffened, but she didn't retaliate against Lea. Instead, she turned her attention to Bertha.
"Bertha, is this the result of your parenting? Looks like all your coddling has left you with no authority over Lea. She doesn't respect you or listen to you anymore! I think it's high time that Dad steps in to discipline Lea properly!"
Bertha looked at Sophia. She always tried to treat Sophia like her own, hoping to win her over.
But over the years, Sophia never reciprocated this sentiment. She never respected Bertha, and only feigned politeness in front of their father, Thaddeus.
Bertha could overlook Sophia's attitude towards herself, but what she found hard to accept was Sophia's constant bickering with Lea.
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