"Ma'am!"

Beauty responded timidly, relief flickering briefly across her face.

Bruno looked at his sister, secretly praying that at least she would support and not talk rudely to Beauty anymore.

He paid attention more than Beauty that Abigail called.

"Don't call me ma'am, please. I'm Abigail. Join us at the dining table," Abigail replied to Beauty with an awkward chuckle.

Beauty glanced at Bruno, seeking reassurance.

He smiled and nodded, encouraging her to go. She clenched her fists and walked off, her demeanor so meek it was as though she was a servant in their house.

Bruno's mother didn't follow the group. She stayed behind, her stern eyes fixed on...