Barton sat on the sofa, scrolling through his phone. Rowena threw off the covers, slipped out of bed, and nestled herself right beside him.
"You haven't been to see me in days. Have you been that busy?" she asked softly.
Catching the scent of her perfume, a sudden wave of restlessness washed over Barton. He gave a dismissive nod. "Work has been demanding lately."
His phone rang. He stood up and stepped out onto the balcony to take the call.
Before Dr. Rowland even arrived, Barton left. Rowena stood on the balcony, watching his car pull out of the driveway. The delicate paleness of her complexion gave way to a dark, brooding scowl.
*
Claire was genuinely shocked when Barton returned. Had the other woman recovered that quickly?
Clearly, Mr. Foster really was a miracle cure!
Knowing Miranda usually took a nap around this time, Barton sat himself on the sofa, casually sipping his tea. Feigning nonchalance, he said, "I think I'll stay the night."
Claire poured him more tea, her tone perfectly steady and unyielding. "That won't be possible, sir. You are only permitted to stay overnight on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Those are Mrs. Foster's rules."
Barton's pride took a hit. His voice dropped, laced with irritation. "This is my house. Since when do I need permission to stay here?"
Claire looked genuinely puzzled. "It's been this way for years, sir. Why are you suddenly trying to rebel against Mrs. Foster now?"
Barton was rendered completely speechless.
He cleared his throat awkwardly. "Then I'll stay for dinner."
"Didn't you say the food here was too plain for your tastes?" Claire countered effortlessly.
Barton glared at her. "Have my wife and I been too lenient with you? You're completely out of line!"
Claire immediately adopted a stance of perfect submission, lowering her eyes. "The only rules I follow are the ones set by Mrs. Foster."
Choking on his own frustration, Barton found himself utterly unable to form a comeback.
He shoved his teacup away, stood up, and stormed up the stairs.

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Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan)
Thank you for the updates....
Carson kick Giselle to the curb as a gentleman. He never fails to explain himself to Marina and he always rises to the occasion to come to her rescue. Now that he's assured her that he won't do as his father had done. The ice is breaking. Thank you for the updates....
May we have updates please. Thank you...
Carson can be jealous too. More updates please and thank you for the updates....
More updates please....
Oooowweeee! This THREW ME COMPLETELY for a loop. Thank you for the updates....
May we please have updates. Thank you...
It's time for Carson and Marina to commit further than the engagement. Looking forward to the updates....
Thank you for the updates....
Thank you for the updates. I thoroughly enjoy your writing....