A Widow's Poison, A Wife's Rebellion novel Chapter 198

Brinley’s heart soared, but she managed to keep her expression one of gentle concern. “But what if…”

“You can’t keep defending her!” Darleen cut her off. Even though the Seabrook family was on shaky ground, Darleen still felt a duty to Brinley. Her first daughter-in-law, despite being raised by a tigress like Harriet, was kind and obedient. As long as she gave up on Fairfax, Darleen could still treat her well.

“I’m just worried about Faraday…” Brinley murmured, using Fairfax’s brother's name.

The mention of ‘Faraday’ made Darleen’s face fall. She pulled her hand from Brinley’s grasp. “Brinley, you need to accept the reality of Faraday’s situation.”

Brinley stared at her empty palm, then back at Darleen.

“Even if Fairfax and Starla are finished, your reputation in Marina City makes a future with him impossible,” Darleen stated sternly.

Before, she might have supported the match. Brinley’s mother had a massive overseas business, and more importantly, no one in Marina City knew Fairfax was married. Now, the whole city knew, and Brinley had been branded as his mistress. Darleen would never allow that kind of scandal to tarnish the family name.

Brinley’s brief moment of happiness vanished, replaced by a familiar gloom.

“But we should both be glad that Starla won’t be coming out of there alive,” Darleen said, trying to lift her spirits.

Brinley’s hope rekindled. That was right. As long as Starla was dead, there was still a chance for her and Fairfax. There was no need to rush.

Xenia, however, was on the verge of a breakdown. “Mercy? Does she need our mercy? She has plenty of people protecting her now!”

Both Fairfax and Herbert were shielding her. They had no way of getting to her.

Darleen frowned. “What are you talking about?”

“I’m talking about the fact that she never went to jail!” Xenia cried, tears of rage and frustration streaming down her face. “Herbert picked her up on the way there!”

Brinley and Darleen stared, stunned into silence.