On the Ruins of His Regret I Soar novel Chapter 74

“She and I are both women and mothers,” Isabella sighed. “I can understand how a mother feels.”

Kevin nodded, and together they drove to the cemetery. As they climbed the hill, Isabella said, “I truly envy Elizabeth.”

“Envy what?” Kevin asked, breathless from the exertion.

“I envy that she had you during the best years of her life,” Isabella said, holding his hand. “That she will be buried here, in the Brown family cemetery. When your time comes, you will be laid to rest together.”

Kevin was touched. “Don’t worry. When our time comes, you will also be buried in our family cemetery. Although I will be buried with Elizabeth, I’ll arrange for a small plot to be made for you right next to mine. You’ll be with me.”

“Okay,” Isabella smiled.

They stood hand in hand before Elizabeth Bailey’s tombstone. The photo on it was of Elizabeth at thirty-five, her smile radiant, her eyes bright. Isabella clenched her fists.

Beautiful? So what?

Smart? So what?

Her life was short, rendering all her gifts meaningless. The one who laughs last is the true winner.

Isabella stared at the photo, a faint smile on her lips. “Mrs. Brown, I’ve come to see you. Jessica is back home now, so you can rest easy. Kevin and I will be sure to guide her back to the right path, so she stops doing things that bring shame to the family.”

…

Back at the estate, Jessica stared at the deed, her eyes stinging with tears.

Mom, I got it back. The last thing you left me.

She pressed a gentle kiss to the paper.

The boy had fallen and was now wailing loudly.

Jessica, her heart still pounding, realized that George was still holding her. A blush crept up her cheeks, and she quickly stepped back, creating distance between them. She was afraid of what it would look like if someone saw them, afraid of the trouble it would cause for George. He was just a bodyguard. If word got back to Lance, he wouldn’t hesitate to make George’s life difficult.

But to George, her hasty retreat looked like something else entirely. His expression darkened.

The boy’s parents were hurrying toward them.

“You should go,” Jessica urged George quietly. “I can handle this.”

He gave her one last, deep look before turning and walking away.

The boy’s mother rushed up and shoved Jessica hard. “What did you do to my son?”