Chapter 298



Melinda was acutely aware Stan desired intimacy with her, which provided her a sliver of control in their interactions. She had resisted his advances steadfastly, never imagining he would retaliate in such a calculated and cruel manner.

Stan signaled for privacy. “Let’s give them some time to sort things out.”

The room slowly emptied, leaving a tense atmosphere behind.

Melinda’s gaze followed each person as they exited.

The moment they were alone, Dean’s anger manifested violently. He seized Melinda by the hair, yanking her head back sharply.

The pain elicited a sharp scream from Melinda. “Dean! What the hell? I’m your wife! How can you treat me like this? What are people going to think?”

Yet, her words only stoked the flames of Dean’s anger, driving him into an even deeper rage.

“What are people going to think? I’ve openly taken a mistress, and you stayed quiet, playing the dutiful wife, only to betray me later,” Dean retorted with scorn. “Consider this your just desserts.”

Melinda, ignited by his words, shot up from her seat. “You think I’m oblivious? You and Shirley plan to discard me and our daughter as soon as that mistress bears you a son. I have to safeguard my daughter’s future. If you can be this merciless, expect the same from me!” she declared fiercely.

Dean sneered in response, “You chose this life, Melinda. No one made these decisions for you. If you want out, I won’t hold you back. I have no affection left for you. Since you’ve failed to provide a son, just be thankful I still provide for you and our daughter.”

Melinda’s voice cracked as she pleaded, “What about our daughter? Doesn’t she mean anything to you?”

“She can stay, but remember, a daughter doesn’t hold the same value as a son in my eyes. Considering your actions, I regret not having ousted you sooner,” Dean coldly retorted.

Devastated, Melinda realized the depth of Dean’s ruthlessness. She pondered her limited options, contemplating aligning with Stan, despite her reservations. It seemed to be the only viable path left for her.

Meanwhile, a crisis unfolded within the Nixon family.

Bria, after a near-fatal drowning incident, was rescued under dramatic circumstances.

As Bria lay pale and struggling for breath, surrounded by anxious family members and a few remaining guests, the scene drew whispers.

“How could such a thing happen to Miss Nixon?”

“I heard she’s been unwell. This looks serious…”

“Shut up! All of you!” Klein burst through the gathering, his usually calm demeanor replaced by palpable fury. “Stop spreading bullshit rumors. My sister is going to be fine.”

Klein, known for his composed and gentle nature, had never before lost his temper so publicly. His sudden outburst shocked those around him, drawing looks of concern and sympathy.

Klein’s eyes were fixed on Bria, who was still undergoing emergency treatment, his heart seemingly sinking with each passing moment. “Bria, how did this happen? Just earlier, you were talking about the new clothes you wanted, and I promised I’d get them for you.”

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