Standing between Joseph and Larry, Ruth nervously glanced around before tightening her grip on Joseph's arm. She put on a show of gentleness and grace as she spoke.

"Joseph, Aurelia is still your family. It's just a misunderstanding. You don't have to go this far for me. I feel awful about it."

She then turned to Larry. "Don't you think so, Larry?"

Hearing Ruth's words, Larry hesitated, his voice shaky.

"Mom, I don't want things to go this far either. If you'd just agree to let Ruth come over for Thanksgiving and apologize to her, we could drop the whole trial."

Joseph looked at me gloomily as he spoke.

"It's come to this, Aurelia. Can't you lower your pride for once and apologize to Ruth? That's all we ask for. Just say you're sorry and we'll let this slide."

I let out a mocking laugh, folding my arms in defiance.

"Well, how fitting. You two really are a perfect match. A weak woman and a spineless man. I hope you two stay together for all eternity.

"Enough of this nonsense. Let's get on with the trial. I've got a manicure appointment to catch."

At that, a series of urgent chimes echoed through the courtroom, signaling that Joseph and Larry were eager to proceed and didn't want to argue further.

With the plaintiffs' approval, the judge immediately activated the memory extractor, linking it to both Joseph's and Larry's minds.

"Given the plaintiffs' own will to continue, we will extract memories from all witnesses at once to provide a full account."

As soon as he said that, the livestream flickered a few times before becoming clear.

The door to a dim gray bedroom swung open, revealing me lying in bed, scrolling through videos on my phone.

Joseph entered with a basin of warm water for my feet, and Larry followed behind with a towel. They spoke softly as they approached.

"Mom(Aura), let's give your feet a soothing massage."

In the footage, Joseph and Larry were especially gentle. Joseph even thoughtfully tested the water temperature.

I sat up and spoke in a tone that left no room for argument.

"I'm not feeling well today. You two can wash my feet together."

Neither Joseph nor Larry showed any signs of resistance. Instead, they smiled and complied.

"Aura, you work so hard. This is the least we can do."

I responded coldly, "As you should."

At that, Larry immediately leaned in and asked in a sweet tone.

"Mom, shouldn't we invite Ruth over to thank her for saving your life after the accident?"

Before he could finish, I slapped my wet feet onto both their faces, sneering sharply.

"Sure. If you two lick my feet clean, I might give you a chance."