His Regret Arrived Three Days Late novel Chapter 4

Annika drifted into a fitful sleep, only to be jolted awake at two in the morning by a call from her mother-in-law.

“Annika, is Conrad with you?” Yazmin’s voice was tense.-

“Yes,” Annika lied. She was always a dutiful daughter-in-law and had never lied to Yazmin before, but she wanted to avoid causing more conflict between the mother and son.

“Put him on the phone.”

Annika clutched the phone, sitting bolt upright. “Conrad’s been working so hard lately, he’s fast asleep. Whatever it is, can it wait until…”

Yazmin cut her off, her voice blazing with fury. “Annika, how long are you going to cover for him? I know everything.”

“Yazmin, you can’t believe what the press writes. Those gossip columnists have to make a living somehow.”

“Serena is having surgery tonight! If it’s a success, you won’t have a husband tomorrow! Annika, I don’t know whether to be grateful that I have such a considerate daughter-in-law, or furious that you’re so soft-hearted and kind.”

Annika remained silent. It wasn’t kindness; it was unrequited love. No matter how hard she tried, she couldn’t win his heart, and the sense of powerlessness had already torn her to shreds.

She bit her lip so hard that a trickle of blood ran from the corner of her mouth, staining her white nightgown like a crimson flower.

Hearing her silence, Yazmin sighed heavily. “I’ve truly failed Nadine.”

She glanced at the storm raging outside, terrified at the thought of him flying in such weather. Grabbing his icy hand, she babbled, “Your hands are so cold… I’m so glad you’re safe.”

Annika tried to help him out of his wet coat, but he shoved her away. She stumbled, and just as she was about to fall, his arm shot out and wrapped around her waist, steadying her.

Their eyes met. Conrad’s gaze was cold and distant. Once she was stable, he removed his hand as if her touch had burned him. Without another word, he turned and walked out.

Annika’s lips parted, but no sound came out. She had to hold on to the last shred of her dignity in this relationship.

She stared at the empty doorway as the wind howled, the cold air washing over her face. But she couldn’t feel a thing. Her body sank onto the bed, her expression one of utter despair.