Chapter: 142

Jerald frowned. "What's the matter?"

Shelia shook her head. "It's nothing. I'm used to it."

"Used to what?" Jerald's patience wore thin. “Stop crying and just tell me."

Shelia turned to face him, her clothes in disarray, tears streaking her cheeks, making her look pitiful.

Seeing her state, Jerald motioned for her to come closer and sit beside him. "Who upset you?"

Shelia bit her lip. “Jerald, don't be mad at Caden. He lost his mother so young, and without her, he grew bitter and angry. He resents me. It's really all my fault from back then—"

Jerald didn't let her finish. "Did he hurt you?"

Shelia's tears flowed harder.

Her silence spoke louder than any words.

Jerald's expression darkened. "Has he forgotten his place? This is the Yates family."

Shelia patted his chest gently, trying to calm him. "I'm fine. Please don't get upset."

But just as she said this, Jerald began to cough, a metallic taste filling his mouth.

Shelia rushed to him. “See, you're still too quick to anger."

She left to fetch his medicine, opening the door and catching sight of Caden on the stairs.

Shelia flinched, unease instantly flooding her.

She worried Caden might have overheard her.

But then she reminded herself that Jerald was awake and would support her. What could Caden do? He'd have no choice but to fall in line.

Putting on a smile, she said, “Caden, it's pouring outside. Why don't you stay a bit? Skip the office today. Have dinner with Jerald.”

She expected him to decline, but to her surprise, he simply said, “Alright.”

She stared at him, momentarily caught off guard.

Caden raised an eyebrow. "What? Were you hoping I'd refuse?"

Shelia forced a smile. "No, no. I'm just- happy you're staying. It's so rare."

Caden remained stone-faced.

He could see right through her, knowing her kindness was nothing but an act.

But he didn't have the patience for it and turned towards the guest room without another word.

Alicia limped back to her own room, pulling her dress up to check her knee.

It wasn't seriously hurt, but a bruise had already started forming.

She let out a heavy sigh.

Karma seemed to come quickly for her.

But why hadn't Caden ever faced any consequences for his actions?