Five Years of Marriage to Mr. Bradford (by Koi Fish) novel Chapter 89

Vance stiffened, but Rebecca stayed eerily calm.

“Kimberly swore it was passion fruit lemon juice,” she said. “How did it turn into mango juice? Did she spike it, or did someone swap it? And Vance, who did you tell about my allergy?”

Catherine went white as a sheet, but before she could say anything, Rebecca pressed on. “Who locked the door? There are surveillance cameras; a quick check will clarify everything, unless it’s tampered with or deleted. All things considered, involving the police is necessary. I’m calling them now.”

The two were ready to protest, but she continued, “This was attempted murder! Anyone blocking me is in on it!”

Colors drained from Catherine’s face, while Rebecca glared at Vance. “I was almost burned alive at your company, and you’re against calling the police? Covering for someone?”

“No, it’s not like that.” He squeezed his eyes shut. “You’re suspecting Cathy?”

Her jaw tightened. “I’m not suspecting anyone. Just want the truth. No one can stop me here.”

“No, I didn’t,” Catherine sobbed. “How could I harm her?”

Vance gripped Rebecca’s shoulders. “Exactly! She wouldn’t…”

He was stunned, his face crumbling. “Did you really…”

She lunged forward, clinging to his arm like a lifeline. “I’m sorry, Vance. I didn’t mean to. I–I just wanted to play a prank on her.

11

“A prank?” Rebecca scoffed. “Your crew loves those, huh? In my 20–something years, I never knew pranks could turn deadly.” “No, no…” Catherine shook her head vigorously. “Vance, hear me out. I’d never hurt her for real. I can’t even squash a bug. I just wanted to rattle her a little. She can’t stand us, so I figured I’d stick up for you by making her look silly in front of everybody. That’s why I told Kimberly to serve the mango juice. I swear, I only wanted her to show up with a rash all over her face.”