Larissa Judson and Haskell Palmer novel Chapter 597

The villagers’ cutting remarks left Finley feeling utterly humiliated. He swallowed his pride and asked, “Excuse me, do you know where Larissa’s old herb garden is? Who’s taking care of it now?”

The villagers looked at him with disdain.

“Why? You want to get your hands on her garden?” one of them scoffed. “Those herbs are priceless. We’re not telling you anything!”

“If you dare touch Larissa’s garden, we’ll beat you to a pulp!” another threatened.

“No, that’s not it,” Finley pleaded. “Since Larissa isn’t here, I just wanted to help take care of it for her…”

“Don’t give us that!”

“A spoiled rich boy like you? You wouldn’t last five minutes doing that kind of work. You’re probably just broke and looking to steal her herbs to sell!”

“Come on, let’s go. Ignore him. He’ll get bored and leave in a few days.”

As the villagers dispersed, a wave of defeat washed over Finley. He, her own brother, was less compassionate than these strangers. They had cared for Larissa when he had been too proud and arrogant to see past his own nose.

But he wouldn't give up. He would earn their respect. If he couldn't even win them over, how could he ever hope to win back his sister?

...

When Vivica returned to their small rental apartment, she found her husband, Paxton, on the phone, his voice tense.

“Mr. Warner, we’ve known each other for years. All I’m asking is for you to cause a little trouble with the medical equipment procurement while Neville is in charge. Is that really too much to ask?”

Paxton was about to tell her not to bother, but then an idea began to form in his mind.

“Fine,” he said, waving a hand. “Go and bring him home.”

Vivica grabbed her purse and keys and left immediately.

Once she was gone, Paxton’s eyes turned cold and hard. He stared down at his own hand, at the stump where his little finger used to be. He would never forget that humiliation.

He knew he couldn’t take on Larissa directly, but Lucius could. And all it would cost him was a little family tragedy.

With a chilling resolve, Paxton put on his coat and left the apartment, heading for the Lincoln family estate.