Page 63 of King of Pride

Ivan’s mother.

For a moment, Rose could only stare at her, her entire body going rigid.

Maria, however, looked delighted to see her.

The instant their eyes met, her face brightened as though all her wishes had suddenly come true.

“Rose! Sweetheart!”

Maria immediately hurried toward her.

“I was just wondering when I would get to see you!”

Rose remained frozen, barely able to process the unexpected encounter.

Maria looked exactly as she always did—perfectly polished from head to toe. Her signature red lipstick was immaculate, and a few carefully styled strands of hair framed her forehead. She wore an expensive, perfectly tailored outfit that complemented her figure, while a designer handbag rested against her arm.

Maria Carrington had always been meticulous about her appearance in society. Even at home, she was perfectly dressed in clothes that complemented her figure and reflected the wealth of the Carrington family. Rose had never seen her look anything less than flawless, and today was no exception.

“I came to meet your father about something important, but unfortunately, he wasn’t here,” Maria continued as she gently took Rose’s hands into hers. She held them affectionately, smiling brightly. “I thought I would wait for him to come home, but it turns out you came home first. Where have you been? I’ve been trying to get in touch with you, but I couldn’t reach you.”

Rose’s shoulders finally began to relax as the initial shock wore off. She offered Maria a hesitant smile.

“I was just a little busy, Mrs. Carrington. How are you?”

“I’m fine, dear.”

A flicker of tension crossed Maria’s face before she lowered her voice.

“I heard about what happened between you and Ivan.”

Her smile faded.

She reached for Rose’s arm and gently guided her toward the seating area.

“Come. Sit with me.”

Rose followed her, but instead of sitting beside Maria, she gently freed her arm and took a seat across from her in a single armchair.

Maria looked slightly uncomfortable with the distance between them but didn't comment.

“It was a mistake,” she said, her voice becoming more serious. “You know Ivan. He would never normally raise his hand against anyone. This must have been the first time, right?”

Rose studied her carefully, tension returning to her expression. She clasped her hands together in her lap before answering.

“Yes. It was the first time.”

Her voice hardened slightly.

“And it will be the last time he ever gets the chance to do it.”

Maria’s body stiffened.

The smile disappeared from her face completely, and a crease formed between her brows.

“Come on, Rose. Don’t be like this.”

She leaned forward.