On the Ruins of His Regret I Soar novel Chapter 298

A sudden clarity washed over Susan Lane. She nodded slowly. “So that’s it. I knew Lance wasn’t so reckless. He must have known about this, which is why he ended up sleeping with Catherine. In that case, this whole mess isn’t entirely his fault…”

“Yes, ma’am,” Karen affirmed. “I wasn’t going to tell you because I was afraid it would upset you. But with this news about Catherine, I knew you would feel terribly guilty toward Jessica. I thought if you knew what she had done, it might ease your conscience a little. Perhaps Lance isn’t the only one to blame for this failed marriage. Perhaps Jessica isn’t so innocent after all.”

It is human nature to seek out any justification, true or not, to lessen one’s guilt. In that moment, Karen’s words erased all of Lance’s transgressions and shifted the blame squarely onto Jessica. Susan’s guilt, and the harm the Smith family had inflicted upon Jessica, could now be conveniently dismissed.

Late that night, Susan went to the family chapel. A cold wind rustled through the grounds, setting an uneasy mood. She stood at the entrance, looking at Lance kneeling inside. Shaking her head, she walked in without a word.

“You’ve been kneeling all day,” she said. “Have you come to a decision?”

Lance kept his eyes downcast. “I don’t want to get a divorce.”

“You fool!” Susan snapped. “You don’t want a divorce? Then what about Catherine’s child? Lance, you are more than just yourself; you are a descendant of the Smith family. You have a duty to carry on our name!”

“Don’t say another word. I didn’t force you to get Catherine pregnant. Adults must take responsibility for their actions. You’ve already failed Jessica; do not fail another young woman. Jessica no longer loves you. Forcing her to stay will only make her hate you more. It’s better to turn to someone who does love you. At least you can find some peace for the rest of your life.”

“Grandma.”

“If you won’t think of yourself, then think of me and Amy. I am old. I can’t take any more of this drama. My last wish is to have a grandson. And Amy is still young. She cannot grow up in a home filled with fighting. An unstable family will only cause her harm.”