Better Late, But Never His Again novel Chapter 184

He took a deep breath, raised his hand, and gently cupped the back of Hazel's head. His thumb stroked her hair, a warm smile touching his lips as his voice returned to its usual tender cadence.

For a fleeting second, it felt like this was exactly how they were meant to be.

"Alright, go ahead. Do you need me to drop you off?"

Hazel shook her head. "No, I'll grab a cab. Just go home and comfort Chloe, and explain things to Beatrice for me."

Julian hit the central lock. The doors clicked open, and Hazel stepped out into the damp garage air.

She gave him a brief wave before turning on her heel and heading toward the exit.

Her shadow stretched long and thin under the harsh fluorescent lights, the steady click of her heels fading into the distance.

Julian sat in the car, watching until she disappeared around the corner. He leaned back against the leather seat, let out a long, satisfied exhale, and smiled as he started the engine, steering toward Thornton Manor.

He knew Hazel was just throwing a tantrum. Everything he'd said tonight had clearly gotten through to her.

She had agreed to go home, make peace with Chloe, and take her fertility pills.

Everything was finally falling back into place. In a stellar mood, he tapped the steering wheel, flipped on the stereo, and tuned it to a soothing jazz station.

Meanwhile, the atmosphere in the villa's living room was entirely different.

Chloe was sprawled across Beatrice's lap, her shoulders shaking with dramatic sobs.

"Evelyn has been by Julian's side forever. Even if she isn't family, she's devoted to him. Don't you agree, Grandma?"

Beatrice's brow furrowed. She despised the idea of a homewrecker trying to usurp the wife's place. Catching the shift in the older woman's demeanor, Chloe immediately pivoted.

"I'm serious, Grandma! They've been married this long with no kids. What if there's a medical issue? Our family has a massive legacy to uphold; we can't let the bloodline end with Julian."

Beatrice's expression finally softened a fraction. "Chloe, did Evelyn put you up to this? Is she trying to stir the pot?"

Chloe instantly sat up straight, waving her hands in denial. "No, Grandma, I swear I thought of it myself! If Julian is fine, then it has to be Hazel. And look at Julian, he's in perfect shape. There's no way it's his fault. We should just have them get a full medical checkup."

Beatrice fell into a deep, contemplative silence.