And I got a brand-new strawberry cake and fresh gifts from Mom.
The incident made the papers the very next day. Strangely, Dad didn't get angry at Mom the way he had before. Instead, he started coming home more often, and for the first time, he never mentioned Bella's name again.
I didn't understand why, until one late night when I overheard Mom speaking to the butler in the study.
"Bella's child died under that chandelier. Her face was ruined too. I suppose Mr. Pearson decided she was no longer of use, so he cast her aside. Now he's preparing to return to his family, to you and the young master," the butler said.
Mom stared out the dark window, her voice was cold. "Let's hope so."
In the days that followed, Dad really did change. He came home early, bringing me piles of toys and treats.
Mom's jewelry case filled quickly, and those designer clothes could hardly fit into the wardrobe.
Mom seemed to have also felt Dad's change, and the smile on her face gradually returned.
One day, Dad said he wanted to take us to visit Grandpa and Grandma. Their home was far away; and we drove for hours.
When the car reached a bridge, Dad suddenly stopped.
I thought he wanted to enjoy the view.