Chapter 14 - The Poisoned Cup
Thursday evening arrived, bringing a thick, oppressive silence over the massive dining room.
Tomorrow was Daniel’s eighteenth birthday, the deadline for Elena's sick, twisted master plan.
Elena had prepared a massive, lavish dinner, acting incredibly cheerful and pouring expensive sparkling cider into crystal glasses.
“To our beautiful, perfect family,” Elena beamed, raising her glass high in the air.
Daniel raised his glass, forcing a smile while his stomach twisted into painful, nervous knots.
He watched carefully as Elena brought out a small, steaming mug of herbal tea and placed it gently in front of Emma.
“Drink up, sweetheart. It will help you sleep soundly tonight,” Elena cooed softly.
Daniel stared at the innocent-looking mug, knowing exactly what heavy sedatives were dissolved inside the hot liquid.
Emma reached for the mug with both hands, but Daniel suddenly stood up, violently knocking his chair backward.
He intentionally bumped his elbow into Emma's arm, sending the ceramic mug crashing onto the expensive hardwood floor.
The hot, heavily drugged tea spilled everywhere, ruining the expensive rug.
“Oh my gosh, I am so incredibly sorry, Emma, my hand slipped,” Daniel lied rapidly, grabbing a cloth napkin.
For a split second, the warm, loving mother mask completely slipped from Elena's face.
Her eyes flashed with a terrifying, unhinged rage, and her jaw clenched so tightly her teeth audibly ground together.
“It is fine, Daniel. I will simply make her another cup,” Elena said, her voice dripping with venomous restraint.
“Actually, Mom, my stomach is really upset. I think I just want to go to bed early,” Emma murmured, looking at the spilled tea.
Elena’s polite smile returned, but her eyes remained completely dead. “Of course, darling. Run along.”
Daniel walked Emma up the grand staircase, his heart hammering against his ribs like a trapped bird.
When they reached her room, he didn't let her get into her bed.
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He pulled a dark, heavy winter coat from her closet and shoved it into her arms.
“Put this on, Emma, and do not make a single sound. We are leaving right now,” Daniel whispered fiercely.
