**A Promise Hidden in the Quiet Rain by Adrian Hale**
**Chapter 260: The Victim Act**
Finished
“It’s alright, Jenarth. I promise, I won’t abandon you,” Arthur said softly, his voice wrapped in warmth as he enveloped the boy in his arms.
In an instant, Jenarth nestled against his chest, seeking comfort. “Daddy,” he whispered, the word holding a world of innocence and trust.
“Arthur!”
The sudden call pulled his attention upward, and he found Jennifer standing a few paces away. Her eyes were red-rimmed, betraying the tears she had fought so hard to hold back. The stubborn way she attempted to maintain her composure didn’t escape Arthur’s notice; it only added to the weight in his chest.
“Jennifer.” The name felt heavy on his tongue, and he struggled to find the right words, especially after the shocking announcement his mother had made about their wedding in front of everyone.
He had always tried to provide Jennifer with the life she deserved, and he had taken on the responsibility of caring for Jenarth as well. But deep down, he knew that none of it stemmed from love.
What he felt was a complicated mix of gratitude and guilt. If it hadn’t been for her saving him back then, he wouldn’t be standing here today, alive.
He had even considered giving her shares in the Myers Group, ensuring she would never have to worry about money again. Yet, his heart—his heart was something he couldn’t give away.
He understood exactly who held it—Chloe. But now, standing here, face to face with Jennifer, he was at a loss for what to say or do.
“Jennifer… I’m sorry,” he murmured, his voice barely above a whisper, filled with helplessness.
Her response was minimal; she offered him a faint smile, one that didn’t quite reach her eyes. “I understand how you feel about Chloe. I get it, Arthur. You should pursue what you truly want. I’ll be fine. I tried to convince your mother to reconsider, but… it didn’t work out.”
Another fragile smile graced her lips, but it was tinged with sadness. “The news has spread like wildfire. I couldn’t stop it from getting out. But I can choose to walk away. I’ll take Jenarth and leave. This is my fault—I shouldn’t have been so greedy, holding onto dreams that were never meant to be.”
Arthur stared at her, taken aback by her composure. She was calm, devoid of theatrics or desperate pleas. Instead, she was encouraging him to seek his own happiness.
So, who was truly clinging to a fantasy here? Perhaps it was him all along.
“Daddy Arthur, please don’t make us go! I’ll be good, I promise! I’ll do whatever you want!” Jenarth pleaded, reaching out to grasp his hand.
But Jennifer gently pulled the boy back into her embrace, her expression softening. “Arthur… thank you for giving me a memory I will cherish forever.” She lowered her gaze, took Jenarth’s small hand, and turned to leave, her resolve evident.
Watching her retreat, her posture so delicate it seemed she might shatter at any moment, something twisted painfully in Arthur’s chest. Without thinking, he reached out to halt her.
“Jennifer.”
She paused, turning slightly to look back at him.


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