Two Times the Charm (Clara and Emmett) novel Chapter 474

If it weren't for her, Emmett would still be living the high life, perched atop society's ladder, carefree and unburdened by the world's weight.

...

At the hospital.

It was quiet in the VIP ward.

Gazing down from the window, Emmett could see the hospital's garden where patients meandered, some pacing back and forth to reclaim their strength.

Couples old and young, some arm in arm, managed to wear smiles despite the backdrop of illness and healing.

Emmett stood by the window, watching these scenes unfold, his eyes glazed with contemplation.

Ricardo's words echoed in his mind.

Perhaps he had indeed allowed passion to cloud his judgment.

Reflecting on it now, it was clear. With Clara's transparent nature, any falsehood would have unraveled before his very eyes.

It was true then; she had been sneaking out while at the Melendez Group.

He knew guilt had been gnawing at her, guilt owed to Elio who had undoubtedly been helping her through thick and thin.

A headache began to pulse at Emmett's temples, prompting him to massage his forehead in search of relief.

A knock at the door drew his attention, and in walked his father.

"You don’t need to hide anything from me! You're my son; I know what's on your mind. I'm not your mother, you can talk to me."

Patrick sighed deeply. "You know, the first time I met Clara at your company, I thought she was a fine young woman. So, in the heat of the moment, I brought up the idea of her marrying you. I figured since you didn't dislike her, why not marry her? It would fill Mrs. Melendez's shoes, so to speak. And when you actually brought her into the family, seeing her bond with Aiden and Alex, I was quite content with her as my daughter-in-law. We may not have spoken much, but she's always shown me respect, nothing to fault her on."

Emmett twirled his wedding band, lips pressed together, half-listening to his father, half-lost in his own thoughts.

"It's just that... the news upset me quite a bit. Our family hasn't seen such negative press in years!"

"Dad, I have my own plans for Clara!"

"Don't get me wrong, son. I'm not asking you to give up or make certain decisions. I'm not like your mom. She acts on her every whim, and I've tried discussing it with her privately many times, to no avail. All I wish for you is happiness. As long as you and the kids are happy, that's all that matters to me. I don't wish to meddle. You've always made us proud, in your studies, your career... And I trust you'll make the right call in matters of the heart, the best decision for you, for Aiden, and for Alex."