Chapter 719



“lt’s not exactly that,” Clayton interjected. “Jake and I discussed this earlier today. He’s definitely looking forward to the wedding, just not locally.”

Jake spoke up. “I’ve thought about it. Imagine a wedding on a picturesque island abroad, where they say marriages last forever.”

“Really?” Cara responded skeptically.

Jake then showed her a webpage detailing the island.

As Cara studied the information, the description matched Jake’s claims. It seemed he had clearly put a lot of thought into it.

Thinking of this, Cara’s eyes reddened with emotion. Still, she preferred a local wedding. “The island sounds enchanting, but I’d rather we marry here at home, where we grew up, surrounded by all our loved ones. I want their blessings,” Cara explained, her voice laden with emotion, yet the logic slightly strained.

The scandal involving Ernesto and Griffin was well-known in Burmoos, stirring rumors about Cara and implicating the Morgan family as accomplices. Clayton’s good name suffered because of this. Given these circumstances, remaining in Burmoos seemed imprudent. Furthermore, fearing Kallie might discover their plans, Clayton had chosen to take Cara abroad at that time.

“Cara, think logically. You’re aware of the talk behind your back,” Clayton said, coughing lightly.

Feeling unjustly accused, Cara retorted, “I’m innocent, yet I’m slandered. I’m determined to show how prosperous and content I am by having my wedding right here.”

Upon hearing this, Jake’s demeanor turned somber, and he made to leave.

In desperation, Cara grabbed his arm. “Jake, are you upset? Please, let’s talk it over,” she pleaded.

Seemingly disheartened, Jake pulled away. “I had hoped you’d appreciate the effort I put into planning this, but it seems you don’t. If you dislike my ideas that much, we can marry anywhere.” Cara, sensing his hurt, quickly conceded. “Alright. We won’t marry here but on the island of your choosing. You matter most to me, Jake. I’d marry you anywhere, even in the mountains.” Cara looked at Jake tenderly, and seeing his features relax, she felt hopeful.

“Then I’ll book the hotel immediately. Perhaps we could have the ceremony next week?” Jake suggested.

Thrilled, Cara nodded with enthusiasm.

Despite the earlier tension, the dinner proceeded smoothly thereafter. After eating, Clayton pulled Jake aside for a private word. Cara, sitting quietly in the living room, watched them with occasional, inquisitive glances.

Clayton, noticing Cara’s look, felt conflicted as he grasped Jake’s hand firmly. “Is this really necessary?” he asked.

Jake’s face was stoic, devoid of emotion. “Clayton, we’ve been over this. Don’t start doubting now. Remember what Elma endured.”

Jake added, reinforcing the gravity of their discussion, “The doctor had warned that had Elma not received the treatment promptly, she might not have survived.”

Clayton’s hesitation and lack of response ignited a fiery rage in Jake’s eyes. He fought to contain his fury, much like a caged beast struggling against its restraints, threatening to break free. “I spoke with the doctor in private,” Jake said, his voice tight with suppressed anger. “Elma has sustained severe internal injuries. Why else would that boy be discharged while Elma remains under observation? Some wounds run deeper than what the eye can see. The doctor even hinted that Elma might have been injected with something.”

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