Still, despite his guilty conscience, he had managed to figure out a plausible excuse for himself.

"You know, Julie, I simply could not stand an empty house. It just doesn't feel like a home without you around. Coincidentally, I got busy with Vivian's new movie, so I thought I might as well live in the company while you were gone. Look what a mess this place has turned into. We really can‘t do without the mistress of the house!"

Bill finished his speech with a subtle wink at his daughter.

Taking the hint, Vivian was quick to chime in.

“Exactly, Mom! You have no idea how busy Dad has been these last few days. Just look at him, he has even lost a few pounds!"

Vivian turned to gesture at her father.

Unfortunately, she realized too late that Bill hadn't lost any weight at all. If anything, he looked pudgier than before.

Clearly, he had been Living a cozy Life while he was with Patricia.

In contrast, it was Julie who actually looked skinnier.

Although her class and noble air remained, her eyes had lost their luster and turned into dull pools of gray. Her features were more defined and somewhat angular, a telltale sign of her deteriorating health.

“I am aware that the two of you have been doing well recently," Julie said slowly, though her voice grew louder and more forceful with every word. Only a fool would not recognize the anger in her tone.

“In fact, you've been having the time of your lives, am I right?"

“Julie, I-" Realizing that he was busted, Bill stewed in frustration.

He sneaked a glance at Maria, who sat next to Julie, and decided to change the subject.

“Julie, we should really discuss our family matters among ourselves. What is she here for?"

“Maria is my daughter," Julie replied calmly. Vivian's lips immediately curled into a sneer. Even though she was also adopted, the truth had never been acknowledged out loud before.

And as far as the public was concerned, Vivian was still Julie's only biological daughter.

Annoyed, Vivian blurted out, “Mom, Maria is just your adopted daughter. Besides, she's already engaged to Anthony and lives with him now. A married daughter should no longer be considered a part of the family. She has no business getting involved in our family matters."

Julie only shook her head. "There is no room for such an outdated concept in this household. Even if she is married, Maria will always be my beloved daughter. Furthermore, I did not give birth to you, either, Vivian.

You are no different from Maria."

Vivian was appalled. She had never imagined that Julie would directly reveal their relationship like this.

Certainly not in the presence of Maria.

"Julie!"

Bill cried out angrily.