Chapter 25
Audrey’s POV
I watched the hatred twist Rebecca’s features as she stared at me, her delicate makeup doing nothing to hide the fury in her eyes. I couldn’t help but din a
sheet
Taking advantage of Blake’s momentary distraction, I finally managed to pull my hand free from his grip. The burning senestion in my stomach had intensified, but I forced myself to stand straight, I wouldn’t show weakness. Not now.
“Interesting how the real aggressors are the first to complain, I said, my voice steady despite the effort it took to remain standing.
Rebecca’s eyes narrowed dangerously. “I’m your mother–in–law, Thalia is your sister–in–law. Isn’t it our right discipline you?”
A bitter smile touched my lips. The irony was almost amusing. So it’s your right to hit me, but when I defend myself, you run crying to William?”
The glasses on the coffee table trembled as William’s hand came down hard on its surface. “What is she talking about? His voice carried the authority of someone used to commanding boardrooms. “Rebecca?”
I watched as Rebecca’s confidence faltered slightly. Thalia, who had been maintaining a hostile silence, suddenly found the carpet fascinating. I kept expressionless as I continued.
“Would you like to tell William about how you both attacked me last night?” I asked, my tone conversational. “Or should I describe how you held me while Thalia slapped me?”
William’s face darkened with each word. “Blake,” he turned to his grandson, voice dangerously low. “You just stood there watching your mother and sister attack her?”
“Oh no,” I cut in before Blake could respond, watching his jaw tighten. “He didn’t just watch. He pushed me into a marble pillar to get to Laurel.”
‘I did not push you,” Blake’s voice was cold as if telling me that it wasn’t him that night. “I was merely separating you two.”
William’s teacup hit the floor. “When you were in a coma,” his voice shook with barely contained fury, “Audrey cared for you day and night. Have you forgotten everything?”
I swayed slightly, grateful for the chair behind me as another wave of dizziness hit.
“William,” I said softly, drawing his attention away from Blake. “I need to tell you something.”
The room fell silent as I forced my legs to carry me to the center of the room. Every step felt like walking on broken glass, but I kept my spine straight. This was it the moment I’d been preparing for a long while.
‘I had this idea since I lost my child I want a divorce.”
–
Blake’s sharp intake of breath was the only sound in the suddenly still room. I could feel his eyes burning into me, but I kept my gaze fixed on William.
*From the beginning,” I continued slowly, “this marriage was my one–sided love. Blake never cared for me. When Laurel returned…” I paused, swallowing against the metallic taste that threatened to rise in my throat. “Well, everyone can see where his heart truly lies.”
I took a steadying breath, gathering my courage. “William, I hope you can understand and support my decision. I…”
My words died in my throat as William’s face suddenly turned a sickly shade of white. His hand clutched at his chest as he gasped for air, each breath seeming more difficult than the last.
‘Charles! Blake shouted.
Charles appeared instantly with a bottle of heart medication, his usual composed demeanor showing cracks of genuine concern.
“You know grandpa can’t handle such news,” Blake’s voice cut through the tension like ice. “Are you trying to kill him?”
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Chapter 25
Thalia let out a cold laugh. Grandpa has always favored her the most, but look at her now she doesn’t care if her actions kill him.”
I’m sorry, but… I said softly, my voice barely above a whisper. “I can’t keep pretending anymore.
Slowly, deliberately, I lowered myself to my knees before William. The movement sent sharp pains through my stomach, but I ignored them. Taking hir weathered hand in mine, I pressed my forehead against it in a gesture of deep respect.
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