Alicia left a short, simple message. "

by security. Just as Alicia was about to pay the driver and get out, the estate's bu

oor with a respectful bow. "The madam

her message. And

iting. The moment the older woman saw Alicia's pale, exhausted face, her stern expres

g as she finally poured out her grievances. "Grandma, I didn't know where else to go," she confessed, tears pricking her eyes. "Ba

boy has entirely lost his mind," she declared, her tone leaving no room for argument. "Dry your tears, chi

oor of the main house. The room was elegant, with a window overlooking a serene lake, but she was in no mood to appreciate the vi

ayed nerves to finally unwind. In a safe, qui

ake by the sound

, bringing a storm of cold fury w

erve!" He yanked her out of the be

just because she's backing you, I can't touch yo

nst his chest. "I didn't run to any

over her. "Or are you just putting on a pity play t

froze on her left

a dangerous ice. He seized her

asked, his voice

before realizing he meant the wedding

t, pale line on her ring finger where the band us

ing?" he repeated, the press

sion angered her.

s voice cracked with disbeli

Since our marriage was a lie, that ring was not

thing inside him. He released her

and even got on his knees to look under the

it? Tell me!" he y

of absurdity washing over her. Why was he

the ring was his property, and s

ldly, watching his perfor

"You're lying! You hid it, didn't you? You're just trying to

c was both pathe

ou're the one who wants a divorce. You're the one trying to take my children for Destiny. Everything I am

taggered back a step, his face a mask of confusion an