Five Years of Marriage to Mr. Bradford (by Koi Fish) novel Chapter 462

Chapter 462

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Gabriel filled her in about the situation.

In just half a year, Vance’s company had ground to a near standstill and would have no momentum left next year.

Lucas had already gone back to selling tea, and Vance was still figuring out the company’s future.

Aiden and Catherine had both been sentenced. Aiden received the heavier term, while Catherine, being pregnant, was serving her time on house arrest.

Rebecca’s parents had gone to prison for the abuse. Emmett was spared since he hadn’t directly taken part in mistreating Josette. But without Vance’s support, his company collapsed, and his girlfriend dumped him. The pregnancy had been faked.

“He showed up at my office once looking for help,” Gabriel said quietly. “I didn’t see him. Do you think I’m heartless?”

Rebecca shook her head. “You handled it the way you needed to. I know what kind of person you are.”

Gabriel smiled without revealing more. She had only seen the good side of him. In her mind, he was a perfect cousin and a wonderful grandson, but that was not the full extent.

He hadn’t hidden any of this from Desmond. His reputation in Europe was far from stellar. Stories depicted him as a man ruthless toward his family, driven solely by power and money.

Back home, he had mellowed considerably. Whether those stories were true or not, he never explained himself and didn’t mind letting Desmond see his darker side.

One thing was for certain: he was indeed ruthless toward outsiders, yet fiercely protective of his own. He would shield those he cared about with everything he had, but if anyone, family included, dared to hurt the people under his protection, he would show no mercy.

He hadn’t told Rebecca that her parents had been treated the same way as they had once treated Josette. He feared it would upset her, but these people had to face the consequences of their actions. 1

His words also served as a subtle warning to Desmond in the back seat: “You can pursue Rebecca, but once she agrees to be with you, you’d better not hurt her, or I’ll show you how heartless I can be.”

Those matters were settled by the time they reached the house. Once inside, it was officially Christmas Eve, and no one brought up unpleasant topics again.

The Christmas atmosphere at Kaitlyn’s home was now even stronger.

Rebecca hadn’t seen Josette in days. With the heavy snow and Gabriel’s recent trip abroad, it hadn’t been

convenient.

Now Josette’s skin glowed with a healthy pink flush, and her face looked fuller. That delighted Rebecca greatly.

Kaitlyn and Josette spotted Desmond trailing behind and welcomed him warmly.

For Christmas, Kaitlyn had given all the household staff the day off, meaning she had to prepare the big holiday feast herself. That was an enormous challenge for her.

In the old days, the entire extended family had pitched in, so she never worried about it. Later, when it was just her and Gabriel, they kept things simple. But tonight, there were Josette, Rebecca, and a guest. The pressure hit

her all at once.

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Chapter 462

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“Anything I can help with?” Desmond offered right away.

“You?” She looked skeptical.

He rolled up his sleeves. “I’ve got this. Ask Rebecca if you don’t believe me.’

Rebecca nodded without hesitation. “Let him help. He knows what he’s doing.”

And so,

the three of them headed into the kitchen.

Kaitlyn had planned for Desmond to assist and even called Gabriel in, figuring the most lavish meal of the year needed extra hands.

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