Chapter 660



Jake lifted her up, stroking her hair gently. “You’re having such a good time but drenched in sweat. You just got better from a cold, so be careful not to get sick again.”

Elma patted her chest confidently. “I’m okay. I’ve been cozy under the blankets, and Betty’s been taking great care of me. I won’t get sick.”

Betty stood nearby, her smile radiant. “Don’t worry, sir. Elma’s in good hands with me.”

“You’ve really put in the effort. Thanks for taking such good care of Elma,” Jake responded, his smile matching hers.

In Jake’s absence, Elma would have faced much distress if not for Clayton’s and Betty’s support.

Flattered by the acknowledgment, Betty reassured him. “With your trust, I promise Elma will be well cared for.”

Cara observed this exchange from a distance, her lips pressed tightly together in jealousy. Her gaze toward Betty turned icy. In her mind, Betty was just trying to charm Jake.

Angry, Cara quickly moved to intercept, positioning herself strategically between Betty and Jake.

Unaware of any tension, Betty discreetly signaled for the others to start leaving as Cara approached.

As Betty began to walk away, Cara’s voice dripped with contempt. “Why the rush to leave? Feeling guilty now that I’m here?”

Betty, puzzled by Cara’s hostility, was nonetheless accustomed to it after years of service. Cara was known for her unpredictable moods.

Respectfully, Betty replied, “It’s time for your family to gather together. We shouldn’t intrude.”

Cara sneered in response. “Finally, you get it. Leave, and do it quickly.”

After the others had departed, Jake had no intention of staying with Cara. He picked up Elma, ready to walk away.

Vexed, Cara stamped her foot and begrudgingly followed. “Where are you going?” she asked, her voice laced with frustration. “Why are you leaving me behind?”

Jake continued walking, not bothering to look back. “I’m taking Elma out for some fresh air.”

“Jake!” Cara called out, rushing after him. Her voice softened to a plea. “Stay for dinner with me tonight, please. All I want is to talk to you. I won’t push you anymore. I don’t want things to keep going this way. We can’t keep avoiding our problems, can we?”

Seeing Jake remain indifferent, Cara played her last card. “If not for me, then for Elma. She’ll be by my side as she grows up. You wouldn’t want me to mistreat her, would you?”

Cara then turned to Elma. “Elma, what do you think?”

Elma instantly grasped Cara’s threat. She could tell Jake preferred to keep his distance from Cara, but she was afraid of Cara. If Jake rejected her, Elma dreaded the possible repercussions.

Sensing Elma tense up beside him, Jake exhaled a weary sigh. He soothingly rubbed Elma’s back, offering some comfort, before turning to Cara decisively. “Fine. I’ll talk with you.”

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