This time, Victoria truly saw Yulia in a new light. She had expected Yulia to let Simms fight her battles, but instead, Yulia made herself small and humble.
No wonder Simms kept her so close. For a man like him—someone who’d clawed his way up from nothing and built his fortune through his wife’s connections—nothing mattered more than the respect of others.
Yulia understood that perfectly. She made herself invisible just to prop up that fragile ego of his.
Simms thrived on Yulia’s admiration, soaking up every bit of it. For a man with his insecurities, the worst thing was to feel belittled.
Victoria had to admit, Yulia was talented—dangerously so. She had no intention of letting her guard down around her.
No wonder her own mother, a woman born and bred in high society, couldn’t outmaneuver Yulia. The woman could write a textbook on the art of subtle manipulation.
“I’m an adult, not a child,” Victoria said, her tone cool. “I don’t need anyone fussing over me. Besides, I already have a personal assistant on call twenty-four-seven. Dad, you can keep your Nanny Yulia for yourself—I won’t be needing her.”
She stood, making it clear Simms wouldn’t get a chance to force Yulia on her.
Before leaving the dining room, Victoria shot Yulia a sharp look. “My last name is Turner, not Miller. Next time you see me, please address me as Ms. Turner.”
Simms nearly choked, especially when Victoria insisted Yulia call her “Ms. Turner.” It was a slap in the face, and he felt the sting.
If Simms were truly independent—if he had the means to cut ties with the Turner family for good—he would have thrown Victoria out long ago. There was no way he’d let a married daughter come waltzing back into his house and act like she owned the place.
Yulia, ever the peacemaker, stepped up beside him and gently stroked his back, not caring who saw. Her voice was soft and soothing. “Let it go. She’s still young. Give her time, and she’ll come around.”
Simms let out a heavy sigh, Yulia’s gentle words easing his anger.
He brushed his hand over hers, as if making a vow. “You’ve put up with so much for me all these years. No matter what, I’ll make sure you and our daughter get the recognition you deserve. I won’t let you live in the shadows anymore.”
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