Chapter 692



Cara glared at Jake, seething with anger, but there was nothing she could do. As Kallie watched them leave, a pang of loneliness swept over her amidst the bustling crowd.

Rachel quickly stepped in to defend Kallie. “What’s his problem? You two were a thing, and he won’t even let you explain?”

Kallie sighed. “It’s fine. I’m ready to move on. I kind of lost it back there.”

Rachel seemed puzzled. “I’ve known you forever, Kallie. You seem laid-back, but you’re tough as nails. You’re far from a doormat. So what if the Morgan family is on the rise? You’ve got the Reeves family behind you. What’s there to fear? Jake doesn’t care about taking over the Reeves family. Even without them, you’re powerful on your own. You don’t need to worry about anything.”

Kallie’s thoughts raced. She wanted to say something but stopped herself. She decided against mentioning what happened at sea, remembering the promise she made to Clayton to keep it a secret to protect Cara’s reputation. She figured it was best to avoid Cara in the future.

Rachel didn’t press her further. She simply gave Kallie’s shoulder a reassuring squeeze. “Whatever happens, I’m on your side. Cara doesn’t seem likely to cause more trouble. Just try to get some rest.”

Kallie nodded, grateful for her friend’s support. She checked on the kids and saw they were having a blast. Deciding not to leave just yet, she grabbed a drink and tried to relax. Kallie wasn’t much of a drinker, and just a few sips of champagne had her head spinning.

The kids, tired from playing, were ready to head home.

Meanwhile, after sending Cara off, Jake intended to leave. But he couldn’t shake the image of Kallie’s beautiful eyes, slightly reddened and filled with hurt. She had tried to appear strong, but he could see the pain in her eyes.

Jake couldn’t understand his own feelings. He’d actually considered ditching Cara right then and there to go to Kallie. The thought gnawed at him. But he didn’t leave. Instead, he turned back, heading back into the party just in time to see Kallie, a little unsteady on her feet, leading the kids outside.

A few men at the party, their eyes gleaming with predatory interest, offered to help Kallie, but she waved them away. Jake watched, a flicker of concern in his eyes. He hesitated for a moment, then decided to follow her.

The cool evening air helped clear Kallie’s head a little.

As Kallie stood on the sidewalk, she realized she had a problem. She hadn’t arranged for a driver, and now she was in no condition to drive herself. She called her driver, who informed her that the traffic was a nightmare because of the party and that it would be at least half an hour before he could get there. Kallie and the kids had no choice but to wait.

Worried about the kids getting cold, Kallie wrapped her shawl around them, shivering herself.

Kallie didn’t want the kids to worry, so she lied and told them she was just trying to sober up.

But Jake, watching from the shadows, noticed her pale face and lips, knowing she was cold.

He watched her for a long time. Seeing her swaying on her feet, he couldn’t take it anymore and walked toward her. Jake was almost to her when someone else rushed past.

“Kallie!” a voice said, filled with concern, as the person steadied her. “Are you alright?”

It was Clayton. He must have just arrived.

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