The Day Silence Spoke novel Chapter 34

Ziven had no idea why Clifford had insisted on the change of vehicle, but Latisha understood.

The question she had asked last night—he had actually remembered.

She looked up at the sky, forcing back tears. No wonder Clifford could hurt her without a second thought. She was just too easy to win back.

Ziven drove her to an upscale Italian restaurant, a popular spot for couples. The place was packed, but a prime table by the window had been reserved.

"Mrs. Lambert, Mr. Lambert will be here as soon as his meeting is over. Please wait here," Ziven said after seating her.

Latisha nodded with a smile.

Ziven exchanged a few words with the restaurant manager and then left.

Latisha sat by the window, watching the vibrant city lights outside. Inside, the restaurant buzzed with conversation and laughter. A commotion from across the room drew her attention. A man was proposing.

The entire restaurant erupted in cheers and applause. The woman covered her mouth, tears of joy streaming down her face as the man slipped a diamond ring onto her finger. They embraced tightly amid the chorus of congratulations.

A small smile touched Latisha's lips. They were so happy, able to openly embrace the person they loved.

Her own hands were bare.

On their wedding day, Polly had scoffed, "Why would a mute need a ceremony? She'd just be a laughingstock, an embarrassment."

Clifford had said he was too busy. A marriage license was enough. And so, they had become husband and wife, surrounded by disapproval instead of blessings.

Over the years, he had given her countless gifts—clothes, shoes, expensive jewelry—but never a ring. Something that symbolized love was not something he would ever give her.

...

Clifford didn't answer, didn't even look at her. He tucked the box into his jacket pocket and went back to his documents.

His reaction infuriated her. It had to be for that mute. Yesenia gritted her teeth. She leaned in close to Clifford and whispered, "Darling, I'm pregnant."

"Get rid of it."

His response was instantaneous, delivered without a flicker of emotion as he signed another paper.

Yesenia's jaw tightened. "I'm serious," she insisted. "I'm not lying!"

Clifford's hand paused. He turned to look at her. She batted her eyelashes, trying to look sincere.

His gaze searched her face for a long moment before he finally spoke. "Then have it. But if it's not mine, both you and the baby will die."