Chapter 758



Kallie smiled softly. “I’m fine now. Moreover, it’s not far. I need to go and find him.”

Clayton responded immediately, “Once you’re ready, we can leave tomorrow, as weather forecasters said it will be a sunny day. It’s been pouring for days, and I heard some villages on the outskirts are submerged, with roads becoming impassable.”

This piece of news sent a wave of unease through Kallie. Sensing her distress, Clayton quickly offered consolation. “I’m sure Jake’s alright. No need to worry.”

Managing only a half-hearted smile, Kallie observed the tired lines etching Clayton’s face.

As Clayton was about to exit, Kallie felt an urge to speak up. “Mr. Morgan?”

Clayton paused and turned, his face lit with a flicker of anticipation.

Kallie took a breath, pausing briefly. “You’ve been pushing yourself too hard lately. Let me take you out for dinner someday. My treat.”

She quickly added, “Oh, and my kids will join us, too.” The glimmer in Clayton’s eyes dimmed as he managed a smile. “We’re beyond formalities, aren’t we? Well, since you invited me, how could I say no? Let’s figure out a time that works for us.”

Kallie watched Clayton as he walked away, feeling a mix of gratitude and concern.

That same night, Jake was plagued by a terrifying dream. He woke up bathed in sweat, the old wound on his side throbbing with each heartbeat. Gathering his senses amidst the sound of relentless rain, his thoughts wandered to Kallie, stirring a blend of concern and longing.

Jake’s recent nightmare centered around Kallie. In the eerie depths of his dream, Kallie was forced to collaborate with Clayton to track him down, but Clayton was secretly scheming against her.

Throughout the dream, Kallie remained unaware of the deceit. Unknowingly, she walked straight into Clayton’s trap, each step deliberate and calculated.

Jake, desperate to warn her, couldn’t utter a word. No matter how hard he tried to yell, his voice failed him. In the end, he could only watch as Clayton led Kallie farther and farther away.

From the moment his memory returned, Jake had sensed something unsettling about Clayton. While Clayton had not been directly involved in Cara’s manipulative schemes, he had played a role in covering them up. More damning was the fact that when Jake had lost his memory, it was Clayton who had deceitfully introduced Kallie as Sarah. Clayton had lied to him. These revelations painted a clear picture: Clayton was not as innocent as he appeared.

With this in mind, Jake knew he had to return to Burmoos urgently. He had lost his phone and didn’t have Kallie’s contact details. Although he had Clayton’s number, reaching out to him didn’t seem wise. Jake scowled, deep in thought, when suddenly the light flicked on with a sharp click.

Jake glanced cautiously at the door and asked, “Who’s there?” It was Lacey, clad in a nightgown. With a touch of embarrassment, she explained, “I heard your voice and got worried something might be wrong, so I came to check.” The tension in Jake’s eyes softened. “I’m fine. Sorry for bothering you. Miss Payne, you can go ahead and rest now.” Lacey’s grip on the doorframe tightened slightly, but her curiosity got the best of her. “You were having a nightmare, calling for Kallie. Is she your wife?”

Jake wasn’t keen on discussing it but responded patiently with a nod.

Lacey nodded back, then paused before leaving, advising him to take care in the coming days so he wouldn’t aggravate his injury.

The rain persisted lightly throughout the night but stopped by morning. Not only had the rain ceased, but the sun had also emerged, signaling a break in the weather. The villagers, delighted by the change, wore smiles all around. Even the typically stoic Lacey found herself smiling as she busied herself in the kitchen.

.

.

.