No Divorce? The Billionaire's Love Chase! novel Chapter 43

At Capital Central Hospital, in the inpatient wing, York was berating Darleen while Peter watched the show from the sidelines.

York pointed toward the door of a private room, his face dark. "Did Claudia tell you to go and cause trouble for Ann?"

Darleen leaned against the wall, stubborn and unrepentant. "Claudia isn't that petty."

York's gaze sharpened. He knew their history.

Darleen and Claudia had been inseparable since childhood. Darleen was the hothead, and Claudia was the clever one who came up with the plans.

For as long as he could remember, Darleen had been Claudia's loyal enforcer.

He was sure Claudia had put her up to this.

York's temple throbbed. "Go and apologize to Ann."

Darleen shrank back, both defiant and scared. "You have to apologize to Claudia first, then I'll apologize to her."

York stared at his sister and was reminded of Claudia.

It was no wonder those two got along. One was stubborn as a mule, the other was headstrong as a bull. When they were sweet, they could melt your heart. When they were angry, they could drive you insane.

"Darleen," York said, his tone hardening, "if you don't apologize, I'm sending you abroad."

York's brow furrowed. "Don't worry. I'll make them apologize to you."

Ann subtly watched his expression. "York, I never realized Darleen and your wife misunderstood me so much. Darleen treated me like a homewrecker, hitting me, screaming at me, accusing me of spending your money. She's just your sister, and she hates me this much. Your wife... she has every right. If she had been the one to come find me last night, she probably would have killed me."

The sympathy in York's voice was undisguised. "Ann, don't worry. As long as I'm here, no one will harm you or your son."

Ann seized the opportunity, taking his hand as she finally let the tears fall.

"York, I know it was selfish of me not to let you explain things to your wife, but I was just so scared," she sobbed. "Six years ago, one word from your grandfather destroyed our happiness. Even now, he and your parents could ruin me. Your wife hates me so much. If she knew what I've been through these past six years, if she knew the truth about my son's father, she would tell everyone. Your family would despise me even more. If that happened, how could we possibly live in this city? How could I face my family and friends? If I don't come to you, who else can I turn to?"

"Ann, listen to me," York said, his tone steady. "No one will ever know. And that child will be under my care. I'll handle everything."