When Love Becomes a Cage (Melanie) novel Chapter 43

Silence fell over the room like a heavy winter blanket as Merritt spoke.

I tried to interject a few times, but Merritt’s icy stare sent me retreating into silence.

Eventually, Merritt dismissed Clyde and me to our room. We always had a room at the Patterson Mansion, though it had seen little use. Clyde always had a penchant for company, rarely finding his way back to the Patterson Mansion.

Still styled to my liking, the room brought a lump to my throat. It was a stark reminder of how much had changed, yet everything remained the same. The joy we shared on our wedding day seemed like a distant memory, replaced by a heavy sorrow hanging in the air.

Initially, I believed the Patterson family welcomed me to be part of them with open arms. However, reality had a different plan, slapping me hard with its cold truth.

After a shower, I collapsed onto the bed, my phone buzzing with a reminder from the nurse about tomorrow's chemotherapy session.

Dreading the side effects, I messaged Jade, asking her to pick me up from Patterson Mansion the next day.

Jade asked, [Back at Patterson Mansion? Is it because of the rumors swirling online?]

She added, [Don't worry. I'll be there first thing in the morning. I won't let the Patterson family push you around!]

Accompanied by a patriotic meme, her messages coaxed a laugh out of me, warming my heart in the process. It seemed Jade had been my unwavering protector since my return.

Clyde emerged from the bathroom, coughing heavily. "Who's making you laugh so much?"

I turned away, presenting him with my back.

The only downside to this room? There was only one bed.

His irritation was palpable as he prodded my shoulder. "Why the short hair? It doesn't suit you."

"It's none of your business!" I snapped, shrugging off his touch and scooting further away.