A Widow's Poison, A Wife's Rebellion novel Chapter 72

She had intentionally provoked Darleen, knowing a proud woman like Darleen would never swallow an insult. The humiliation she felt at Harriet’s hands would be redirected squarely at Starla. Harriet’s goal was simple: to ensure Starla knew no peace. And it wouldn't just be Darleen. Harriet herself had no intention of letting the girl get away with burning down Vista Bay. She would make her pay.

Brinley, aware of her mother's resourcefulness, asked, "But what about Herbert? Why would he have his people protecting Starla?"

They had discovered that a man from Yoran Country was shadowing Starla, and since she had been seen with Herbert frequently, they assumed the man was his.

Herbert was not someone to be trifled with. Brinley worried her mother's rage might lead her to do something reckless and provoke him.

Harriet scoffed. "Whatever his reasons, you can be certain it's not because he's interested in a married woman who's been pregnant. As for why he's helping her… well…"

She paused for effect, her tone dripping with sarcasm. "Men and their so-called brotherhood. When there's a profit to be made, it’s all just smoke and mirrors."

She theorized that Herbert was after one of Fairfax's projects and was using Starla to create a diversion.

Brinley looked uncertain. "Are you… are you sure?"

From what she knew, Herbert wasn't the type to resort to such dirty tricks. He and Fairfax had been close friends for years.

"Trust me, darling. I've seen my share of men over the years," Harriet said with a dismissive wave. "Believe me, he's not helping her because he likes her. For now, just wait for good news from your mother-in-law."

By disrespecting Darleen, Harriet had lit a fuse. A furious Darleen would stop at nothing to drive Starla out of the Yelchin family.

Meanwhile, Starla was trying to kick Fairfax out of her bed, but he held her fast. After everything that had happened, how could he possibly think she wanted him holding her?

"Get out!" she seethed, landing a few kicks against his legs.

"Stop it. Go to sleep," Fairfax grumbled, his voice laced with annoyance, but he didn't loosen his grip. He seemed to have reached his limit, resigned to her outbursts but determined to keep an eye on her to prevent any more disasters.

She struggled, but the difference in their strength, compounded by her own physical weakness after the miscarriage, made it impossible to break free. He pulled her head against his chest. "Starla, please, no more fighting. Okay?"

For the first time, she heard the exhaustion in his voice. He hadn't slept properly in the three days since her world had imploded. Just as she was about to aim another kick, a knock came at the guest room door.