Master of his heart (Max and Brielle) novel Chapter 1193

Tears streamed down her face as she struggled to support her mother, her shoulders shaking uncontrollably with sobs.

Out of the crowd, a man stepped forward. It was Uncle Jack, the same man Emma had given a pack of cigarettes to last time.

When Uncle Jack made his move, his wife shot him a glare, signaling him not to meddle. Yet, he approached Emma and helped her lift Peyton up.

Seeing someone come to her aid, Emma knew it wasn't the time for tears. She quickly stood up, her voice choked with gratitude.

"Uncle Jack, thank you."

The middle-aged man sighed, unsure of what to say.

"Let's get your mom inside and then figure things out," he suggested.

Meanwhile, the chatter among the villagers continued. Mrs. Smith from the Odeberg family stood with her hands on her hips, berating Emma for her shamelessness and accusing her of flirting around.

In this town, an unwed pregnancy could ruin a woman's reputation entirely.

After delivering Peyton home, Uncle Jack left promptly, wary of the gossip that might ensue from his stay.

Now, it was just Emma and Peyton in the room.

With no other choice, Emma endured her pain, heated some water, and gently wiped Peyton's face.

Peyton woke up the next day, clutching her chest and complaining of heart pain. After her complaints, she began to berate Emma.

"It's all your fault. How did I end up with such bad luck? Do you have any idea what people were saying about us last night? If only your father hadn't passed away so early, leaving me to raise you alone."

"I might as well be dead," Peyton lamented, trying to get out of bed to throw herself against a pillar.