On the Ruins of His Regret I Soar novel Chapter 68

“And if I sacrifice myself and stay in this ridiculous marriage, will that make Amy happy?” Jessica retorted. “What child grows up in a home with one father and two mothers?”

Lance fell silent, his eyes fixed on her, a strange light flickering within them. He dropped his cigarette and crushed it under his shoe. “Are you jealous?”

Jessica almost laughed out loud. Six months ago, she had been consumed by jealousy—jealous that Catherine could win the affection of Lance and her brothers without lifting a finger. But now? Now she just wanted them to get together so she could finally be free. Clearly, Lance had completely misread the situation.

Before she could respond, he continued, “Catherine didn’t just study design abroad. She also minored in child psychology and even got certified as a nutritionist. She’s a professional when it comes to taking care of Amy.”

A bitter, ironic smile touched Jessica’s lips. So, it was all a calculated move.

Lance stepped closer to her. “Amy has been hospitalized twice in one week. Don’t you feel even a shred of guilt?”

Jessica said nothing. Of course, she felt more than guilt. Her heart was breaking for her daughter. No one could possibly feel more pain than she did.

“Having Catherine at home will be good for Amy’s physical and mental well-being,” Lance pressed on. “It’s all for Amy’s sake. Why are you so against it?”

“If she’s such a perfect sweetheart,” Jessica shot back, “why don’t you just marry her and make her Amy’s stepmother? Wouldn’t that be better for everyone?”

Lance’s expression darkened instantly. “Jessica, I’m trying to have a serious conversation with you. Do you have to be so sarcastic?”

She just shrugged, her indifference fueling his anger.

…

The next day, Jessica went back.

Catherine greeted her with a triumphant smile. “Jessica, you’re finally back! We were just talking about you. I told everyone you’d come around.”

The smile was pure condescension, but Jessica knew what she was really saying: Look at the little loser, crawling back with her tail between her legs.

Jessica ignored her and went straight to Lance’s study. It was clear he had been waiting for her.