The unwanted wife’s unexpected comeback

Chapter 1228:

Laney had suspected that Cliff would return with Juliet, but witnessing it herself was far more excruciating than she had anticipated.noveldrama

Cliff’s eyes skipped over Philip and fixed on Laney.

Laney’s instinct was to look away, but she couldn’t ignore the vivid bruise at the corner of his mouth. Despite the pain in her heart, she felt concerned for him. How had someone so strong ended up injured? Philip inquired about the bruise, and Juliet explained, “There was a disturbance at my office today. Cliff was struck while defending me, but fortunately, he’s not seriously hurt. Don’t worry, Mr. Hopkins.”

A cold realization washed over Laney. Cliff had been injured while protecting Juliet. He must care deeply for her. Their bond had deepened out of her view. Philip invited Juliet inside.

Madison descended the stairs and wrapped an arm around Laney. Noticing Laney’s tear-streaked face, she expressed concern, “What’s wrong, dear? Have you been crying?”

As Cliff headed toward the living room, he glanced back at Laney. Laney stiffened, averted her gaze, and shook her head.

“No. I’m just tired and need some rest.”

“So soon?” Madison asked.

“Yes, the dance was draining, and I’m feeling unwell.”

“Shall I accompany you upstairs?”

Laney declined politely and retreated to her room.

Madison entered the living room and casually remarked, “Laney has been looking thinner lately. Is the stress from the theater overwhelming? She doesn’t seem herself and is often distracted.”

Cliff asked softly, “Is something wrong with her health?”

“It’s just fatigue from dancing—”

“I’ll go check on her,” Cliff responded.

Madison quickly intervened, gesturing subtly toward Juliet.

“Stay with Juliet. I’ll look after Laney. Don’t worry.”

Knowing Juliet was staying over for the night, Cliff’s parents sensibly went to bed early.

Unable to sleep, Cliff sat watching TV.

Juliet nestled against him.

“Haven’t you sorted things out with your cousin yet? She still seems to harbor feelings for you.”

Cliff maintained an impassive facade. As the focal point of Laney’s affections, he knew all too well that her feelings lingered.

“And you seem to have a problem too,” Juliet added.

“You instantly wanted to check on Laney when you heard she wasn’t feeling well. I’ve never seen cousins so attentive to each other.”

Cliff’s lips pressed tightly together.

“If you’re tired, go to sleep. Leave me be.”

Juliet, feeling restless, supported her head with her hand and studied his profile.

“I’m curious. If things with your cousin aren’t resolved, why invite me here? Are you planning to commit to me?”

Cliff responded evenly, “It’s bound to happen. Does it matter if it’s sooner or later?”

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