Fredric’s POV

The alarm went off at seven-thirty, pulling me out of a restless sleep. My head was still full of bitterness—disgust, even—toward Mathilda.

I never imagined I could ever feel anything for such a stupid woman. Thankfully, the truth came out fast. People like her—poor, useless, dependent—can’t be trusted. They’re parasites. They ruin whatever trust others foolishly give them.

Honestly, I couldn’t stand the thought of seeing her this morning. I even tried to think of a way to dodge Grandma’s video call, but my mind was too fogged up to come up with anything decent.

I didn’t want to ask Paula for help either. She was still shaken from Mathilda’s insane outburst the night before.

Damn it. How dare that woman hurt the two most important women in my life?

Goddamn you, Mathilda.

“Mmhh… baby, you’re awake?” Paula mumbled, stretching, eyes half-closed.

I stroked her hair and kissed her forehead. “Yeah. I have to deal with that routine I can’t escape. I’m sorry, darling. I hate tha