The Revenge of the Mute Wife by Melanie Paulson

Erika was recording her son's reactions, who, despite saying he was all grown up, still behaved like a little kid when it came to his hobby.

"Yes! Thank you, Grandparents!" he shouted, running to hug all three of them. They had gifted him a state-of-the-art gaming PC, complete with a special chair, sound system, and other accessories so he could enjoy his videos in his free time. Howard's friends were excited to see the high-end gaming equipment, which was quite an expensive gift, but it was clear that the grandparents thought more about Howard's happiness than the material value.

"Now you can't complain about lag anymore," said James, who sometimes played with him.

"Yeah!" said Howard happily, jumping up and down with excitement. "As soon as we get home, I'll start setting it up in my room."

"Me too!"

"Yes, Fiona, we can both play," Howard said, picking up his little sister.

"And now, son," Eric called out to James, "don't be jealous of your cousin because your gift is just as special."

"Your gift is more suited to your age," Nicholas mentioned.

"Guys, bring out the other gift," George ordered.

At that, the lights dimmed so everyone would look at the entrance. Special music started playing to build suspense, and a smoke effect was activated as the main doors swung wide open. In the background, a loud roar could be heard. James was in awe as a big smile slowly spread across his face. All the guests watched in amazement as a luxurious black sports car drove into the room.

"This..." James approached the vehicle as it came to a stop, seeing that the event organizer was stepping out, extending his hand to offer him the keys. "Congratulations on your graduation," the organizer said, handing him the keys.

"I" James was thrilled.

"Congratulations, son, you deserve it," George said.

""Is it mine?"

"All yours, champ," Nicholas joked.

"And while you're riding this high, let me inform you that you'll start preparing to take over my position next year," said Jayden.

"Wow... thank you so much!" James jumped like a little kid, eager to get into his car, but a yellow blur beat him to it and jumped in the car.

"Oh yes, I have a new car with a driver included. Thanks." Elizabeth declared playfully

"Hey!"

"Elizabeth," Deborah called out, seeing that she was having fun.

"What? I'm just stating the truth," she said sweetly. "Right, brother? You'll be my driver sometimes, won't you?"

"Let me think about it," he said, a little annoyed, seeing her get more comfortable in the driver's seat and pretend to drive. "But get out, I want to get in."Published by Nôv'elD/rama.Org.

The family laughed at the sibling fight. It was clear they were just playing around, but...

"Get out of my car!" Suddenly, a black-haired woman approached the vehicle and, without hesitation, pushed James aside to grab Elizabeth by the hair and force her out of the car.

"Ah... damn it!" Elizabeth complained, trying to get free

"Let go of my sister!" James frowned and, without a second thought, stepped in to protect Elizabeth, grabbing Cassandra's arm, not caring if he hurt her, and shoved her to the ground while pulling his sister into a protective hug. Elizabeth had a few tears in her eyes from the pain of having her hair pulled, but now she was angry at the

woman who dared to attack her for no reason.

"Ah..." Cassandra whimpered, tears forming in her eyes

The whole family was furious, but the women held back the men, who were ready to pounce on the intruder.

"Cassie!" Roger rushed over to help his daughter.

"What are you doing here?!" Elliot asked, stepping closer to James and Elizabeth before glaring at his brother.