Chapter 652



Behind Clayton, Elma peeked out and asserted, “I can look after myself. Thank you.”

Kallie was familiar with Elma’s fiery spirit and laughed it off without taking offense.

Clayton observed their playful exchange, yet felt a growing unease. He then told Elma, “Why don’t you spend some time with the bodyguards? I need to talk to Kallie.”

Elma agreed with a simple “Got it,” and hurried off, casting a lingering glance at Kallie.

Elma always seemed hesitant to leave Kallie’s side, which struck Kallie as odd.

As Elma departed, Clayton addressed Kallie earnestly, “I must express my gratitude again. Without your help, I’m unsure what would have ensued.”

Kallie dismissed the gratitude, saying, “It’s nothing significant, Mr. Morgan. Surely, you have more pressing matters to discuss.” Her gaze held a deeper meaning.

Clayton, with a dry smile, remarked, “It seems you can see through everything.”

Kallie, growing concerned, inquired, “Is this concerning Elma?”

Clayton nodded slowly, struggling to articulate, “I hope you can keep your distance from Elma moving forward.”

Kallie, taken aback, stared at Clayton in disbelief.

With a heavy sigh, Clayton looked away, unable to meet Kallie’s eyes. He explained, “You know Elma’s mother, Cara, had challenges before. Despite not being an ideal parent, she’s now remarried. Elma’s father and I adore Elma. Cara remains overly protective and fears losing Elma.

Your interactions with Elma haven’t gone unnoticed and tend to unsettle Cara. I know you mean well, but it agitates her. Every time you’re near Elma, it triggers a crisis for Cara. Elma is too young and headstrong to grasp these issues, and it only exacerbates tensions between her and Cara.”

Kallie frowned and pursed her lips together. She had no hidden motives and merely found Elma endearing. Honestly, she was perplexed by Cara’s attitude toward Elma. Though she understood it wasn’t her place to critique Cara’s family dynamics, Kallie felt like arguing yet ultimately opted against it. She remained thankful to both Cara and Clayton. Back when she delivered the twins, Clayton risked his life to move her to safety, leaving Cara unattended, who accidentally fell into the sea and lost a baby.

Kallie’s eyes grew dim. “I’m sorry. I didn’t expect it to affect you.”

Clayton’s face flashed with sadness. At her words, he quickly reassured her, “This isn’t your fault. I struggle to deal with Cara, which is why I came to talk. Actually, the apology should come from me.”

Kallie gently shook her head, replying, “It’s nothing like that. I remember how you looked after me. Without that, I wouldn’t have made it back to my country.”

Clayton said, “That was my choice. I asked nothing in return. My only wish is for you to have a safe and peaceful life.”

As Clayton spoke, anxiety crept into his voice. “You are like family to me.”

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