Chapter 174



Shirley moderated her voice, though her expression remained frosty. “But now Jake’s relationship with Kallie is strained, and he’s still not treating me well.”

Sarah quickly pointed the finger at Kallie. “Such hostility doesn’t just vanish overnight. But don’t worry. Jake and I have become close. He respects my opinion. I’ll talk to him, and he’ll come to apologize to you.”

As Sarah spoke, Shirley’s face softened, and she grasped Sarah’s hand, her smile reflecting satisfaction. “You know, I’ve always seen you as the perfect daughter-in-law. You’re not only beautiful but also wise—far superior to that silent woman.”

A blush crept up Sarah’s cheeks. “Jake and I aren’t even married yet.”

Shirley gave a dismissive snort. “I have no idea what schemes that silent woman has concocted to prevent Jake from divorcing her. But ultimately, I’m his mother, and I’ll find a solution. Sarah, stay close to Jake. Once I handle this matter, I’m planning your wedding for next month.”

Sarah’s face brightened with delight, her hand flying to her mouth in astonishment. “That’s incredible, Shirley! Thank you!”

Shirley chuckled softly. “Don’t be so polite with me—we will be a family soon.”

Nearby, Melinda seethed with envy as she watched their warm interaction.

Dean’s expression grew darker, and he abruptly sprang to his feet.

His sudden outburst took Melinda by surprise.

Fortunately, Shirley hadn’t noticed Dean. Melinda quickly followed Dean out.

“What are you doing? Are you trying to embarrass us?” Melinda voiced her displeasure.

Dean was livid. “You’re still concerned about your worthless reputation. You’ve been plotting to pair Sarah with Jake, haven’t you?”

Melinda appeared confused. “And what if I am? It does us no harm to get rid of Kallie. Don’t forget, before Roderick passed, he left quite a few assets for Kallie, and though your mom has claimed a portion, some remain with her. Once she’s out of the picture, those assets will rightfully return to the Reeves family and to us.”

Dean’s fury intensified. He began pacing around, his agitation evident, leaving Melinda at a loss for words.

Eventually, Dean stopped in front of Melinda, pointed directly at her, and yelled, “Can’t you look past your trivial concerns? Roderick favored Jake during his lifetime. But Roderick knew if he left all the Reeves family assets to Jake, it would cause an uproar. So, he set a condition. The heir to the Reeves fortune would be the one who has his eldest grandson.

Previously, Jake and Kallie had a rocky relationship, and after forcing Kallie into having an abortion, my mom told me Kallie couldn’t have more children. Even though you’ve been useless and haven’t produced a son, it bought me some time to strategize. But now, you hasten to have Jake divorce Kallie and set him up with Sarah. Given that both of them are young and healthy, what will we do when they start having children? You fool!”

Dean’s yelling reverberated in Melinda’s ears, leaving her head spinning. Her knees buckled, and she nearly toppled over.

Dean looked at her with contempt. “You better not lay a finger on my mistress, especially not under my watch. She’s carrying my child now. You’ve become a burden, always causing problems. If you force my hand, I’ll replace you.”

With these harsh words, Dean stormed away, his anger palpable.

Melinda collapsed to the ground, tears cascading down her cheeks. She questioned whether she was cursed, or if it was simply fate’s cruel jest.

So there was such a rule all along. Yet, Melinda had been oblivious for years. It seemed likely that Dean and Shirley had been eyeing this backup plan since learning of her infertility after she gave birth to a girl.

Dean had probably been unfaithful for years.

This thought only deepened Melinda’s resolve. Kallie and Jake could not reconcile. Unbeknownst to Dean, Kallie was expecting. And if the child was a boy…

Melinda shuddered, unable to entertain the thought any longer.

After Kallie found herself locked in the room, she made a video call to Irene.

Irene was seething with anger. “Jake has lost it! He can’t differentiate right from wrong anymore. He’s actually fallen for Sarah’s absurd claims that you provoked her. Can you believe that?”

Kallie remained composed. She gestured that the truth didn’t matter at this point.

Irene’s concern deepened. “Is he planning to keep you locked up there? Do I need to call the cops?”

Kallie laughed softly and reminded Irene of Sarah’s insistence on her presence at her birthday party. If she didn’t show up, Sarah would have nobody to flaunt.

Kallie reassured Irene that even if Jake didn’t release her, Sarah’s nerves would likely drive her to find a way to let Kallie out and attend the party on time.

Kallie was indeed right.

At this moment, Sarah stood at the doorway of Jake’s study, cradling a bowl of soup. She whispered, “Jake, are you still wrapped up in work? May I come in?”

Silence filled the space beyond the door.

Sarah’s tone grew more pleading. “I just have a couple of things to say, and then I’ll leave you be. Or do you think I’m too chatty?”

At last, the door creaked open. Jake appeared, dressed casually in a crisp shirt paired with relaxed pants. Despite his simple outfit, his noble demeanor was palpable.

His icy gaze briefly met Sarah’s, sending a thrill through her.

“Jake…” A blush tinted Sarah’s cheeks. “I’m concerned you’re overworking yourself. Besides, tomorrow’s my birthday party. I wanted to have a word with you.”

Jake stepped aside to let Sarah in.

Once inside, Sarah set down the soup and quickly threw herself into Jake’s arms. She clung to his lean waist, breathing in his distinctive scent, her heart pounding. She felt he was truly hers.

Unseen by her, a look of profound aversion flickered across Jake’s face.

Jake subtly shifted back, as if avoiding any contact with Sarah.

Sarah picked up on his avoidance and studied him with a wan glance. “Jake, are you upset with me? Why aren’t you hugging me back?”

A slight, icy smile played at the corners of Jake’s mouth. “I’ve just been really exhausted lately, not really in the mood.”

With that, he calmly withdrew himself from Sarah’s embrace.

Sarah didn’t seem to take offense. She paused before saying, “There’s something I wanted to discuss. Even though Kallie was out of line today, I can’t help but feel sorry for her. Would you mind if I invited her to my birthday party tomorrow?”

Jake settled into his chair, his eyes locked on the computer screen, his voice detached. “Why invite her? To spoil your day? If you don’t want to see her, there’s no reason to mind her feelings. Plus, don’t stress about her making a scene or complaining. I’ll make sure someone keeps an eye on her.”

Sarah’s smile widened as she leaned in, draping her arms around his neck. “You always look out for me so well, thinking of everything.”

Jake responded with a soft laugh.

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