Chapter 96 Words That Warm the Soul
6
Finished
She knew Peyton cared deeply for her and did things for her constantly. But he never openly expressed his affection.
So she felt confused. She really didn’t know how to face him.
When she’d agreed to be with him, she’d thought she’d lost all hope for love. It didn’t matter who she was with anymore.
“Come eat quickly,” Doris said. “The food will get cold soon.”
“After dinner, you two can stay here. I’ve had a room cleaned for you both,” she added earnestly.
“Mom, today’s Peyton’s grandma’s birthday, but she’s upset. Something happened with her family,” Quinn explained. “So after dinner, I want Peyton to go back to her.”
Doris understood now.
She grew worried, wondering if her daughter had been wronged at the Reed Manor.
But she knew Eleanor had been at the birthday too. If anyone had mistreated Quinn, Eleanor would have stepped in—she’d never let those people get away with it.
Doris sighed, “Donna’s family is outrageous. They’ve always been after Iris’ money. They never once cared about her health. Things have gone too far, and they still insist on being so ruthless!
“I say you should be tougher. Cut off their financial support and let them feel true despair. Maybe then they’ll finally behave. I know you’re not a cruel person, but this is the only way to deal with them. Otherwise, they’ll never learn how serious their actions are.
“Since Iris handed you the company a few years ago, you’ve grown it into an internationally renowned business. She trusted you enough to give it to you for a reason.
“So don’t hold back. Stop worrying about them. They’ve never cared about you or Iris!”
Doris knew she was overstepping as an outsider. But she couldn’t stand by and watch. Their behavior was simply too much.
“I understand, Mrs. Hart. I already have a plan,” Peyton replied. “But we’re getting engaged soon. I’m afraid they’ll cause a scene at the engagement, and that won’t be good for anyone.
“So I plan to deal with them once and for all after we’re engaged.”
He’d had this plan for a long time. But he’d hesitated, worried about the people around him.
If he were alone, he would have cut ties with them long ago.
Doris thought his plan made sense. He was thoughtful and strategic. She couldn’t be happier with her daughter’s future husband.
“Good. Whatever you decide, James and I will support you. We’ll always have your back. Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
13:01 Thu, Jan 22 MM.
Chapter 96 Words That Warm the Soul
“Kieran would never stand by and do nothing either.”
Finished
Peyton envied their close family bond. It was something he’d never experienced or even witnessed before.
After dinner with the Harts, Peyton prepared to leave. He hated to go-their warm family atmosphere was so inviting.
Going back meant being with Iris in a tense, somber house. No one would be smiling there.
He knew Iris would be heartbroken for days. But the proud Iris would never burden others with her pain. She’d suffer in silence.
When he returned to Reed Manor, Iris had already gone to bed. They’d planned to play cards, but she’d said
she felt tired.
Peyton was still worried about her. He went straight to her room to check on her.
“Peyton, you’re back,” Iris said softly.
“Grandma,” he replied, taking her hand.
“Quinn got home safely, I hope. You two will be engaged soon. You should spend more time bonding. I can tell you’ve been keeping each other at a distance.
“Quinn is a wonderful girl-someone worth cherishing for a lifetime. Treat her well and never let her be wronged. Especially when it comes to Wendy.”
Iris never said much, but she saw and understood everything.
Wendy’s situation was the family’s deepest pain. Iris rarely mentioned it, not wanting to upset Peyton.
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13:02 Thu, Jan 22 MM
Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.

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