Chapter 4
Jessica Lane didn’t react. She simply tucked the shattered necklace carefully into her bag, treating the broken pieces as if they were still priceless.
After a long silence, she managed a bitter smile at Carlson Adams. “That’s not necessary, uncle“–
With those words, Jessica turned and strode away, leaving Carlson frozen in place.
Uncle? Ever since Jessica had confessed her feelings for him, she’d stopped calling him that–no matter how many times Carlson insisted, she’d refused to say it. But now, out of nowhere, she’d used the name herself.
He stood there, lost in thought, until Laura Main shook his arm, bringing him back to reality.
“Carlson, are you alright?“&
He immediately forced a warm, reassuring tone. “I’m fine. And don’t worry about what just happened. Jessica is a good person, really. I’ve just spoiled her over the years–she’s a bit willful, that’s all.”
Laura blinked in surprise; she hadn’t expected Carlson to defend Jessica. She nodded, pretending to understand, but her eyes darkened with a flash of jealousy and resentment.
Seeking comfort, Laura wrapped her arms around Carlson’s waist and looked up at him with a soft whine. “Carlson, once my surgery is over, can we get married? I can’t wait to start our life together.”
A gentle warmth flickered in Carlson’s eyes. He tapped her nose affectionately, his voice indulgent. “Of course. Whatever you want.” “Really?” Laura’s tone brimmed with excitement. “Then I’m going to be the most beautiful bride in the world!”
For the next several days, Jessica threw herself into her studies and the endless paperwork for the Western Assistance Program. She left early, came home late, and though they shared the same roof, she never once bumped into Carlson Adams.
One afternoon, Jessica carried a large box of love letters–every one she’d ever written–and made her way to the fireplace. She was determined to destroy them all, to burn the last traces of her feelings.
As the final letter caught flame, Carlson’s harsh voice rang out behind her.”
“What do you think you’re doing?“>
Jessica didn’t answer, but Carlson saw the letter that hadn’t turned to ash yet. He strode over and gripped her wrist tightly.
His voice was low, accusatory. “Jessica Lane, what kind of stunt are you pulling now? Trying to get my attention like this?” “Does it make you feel better?”
Jessica lowered her head, pulling free from his grasp. “You’re reading too much into it.”
Carlson only grew more convinced of her motives. His voice was cold as steel. “Ten days from now, Laura and I are getting married. You’re welcome to attend ” Jessica’s face went pale, her smile strained. “Congratulations.“@
But in ten days, she’d already be gone–busy with the Western Assistance Program. There was no way she’d be there for his wedding. She didn’t say any of this, just turned to leave.
She’d nearly reached the door when Carlson called after her. “Laura says we only get married once in a lifetime, and she doesn’t trust anyone else to handle the arrangements.”
Jessica didn’t understand what he meant. She glanced back at him. “So?”
“So… I want you to organize the wedding for us. You’ve been with me since you were a child you know exactly what I’d want.”
