Chapter 158

I drove in silence, unsure what to say. Fearful of causing Hayden further pain, I still couldn't shake thoughts of my parents' accident. Was it truly an accident, or was there more to the story? Too young to understand back then, Matthew had handled everything. Perhaps he knew the details. I planned to ask him later.

My silence went unchallenged, and the rest of the drive remained quiet. The automatic gate recognized my car, sliding open to admit us to the courtyard. Isabel Zetino, the housemaid, spotted me immediately, smiling broadly. "Rea, you're back! I'll tell Mr. and Mrs. Johnston."

"No need," I replied, smiling back. "I'll go in myself."

Her gaze shifted to Hayden as he exited the car. Her curiosity was evident, so I linked arms with him, introducing him. "This is my boyfriend, Hayden. Hayden, this is Ms. Zetino."

Despite being the housemaid, Isabel had been at the Johnston residence far longer than I, and was close to Lindey. Maintaining appearances was essential, even with her.

Hayden offered a polite nod. "Ms. Zetino."

"Ah," she responded, her expression betraying her less-than-enthusiastic reaction. Still considered Jace's fiancée in this house, my arrival with another man was sure to cause a stir. Isabel was just the beginning; I'd have to face Matthew and Lindey soon enough.

Arm in arm with Hayden, we approached the main hall. Before reaching the door, Lindey's sharp voice cut through the quiet. "You're the chairman, managing thousands, yet can't control your own sons. One's more rebellious than the other."

Typical. I pictured Matthew, likely scrolling through his phone, feigning ignorance.

"Matthew!" Lindey's voice escalated with frustration. "Are you pretending to be deaf again?"

Their loving relationship didn't preclude arguments. Today, however, Lindey's upset seemed genuine, prompting my curiosity.

"I'm not pretending. Responding will only invite more nagging," Matthew finally replied.

"Oh, so now you're tired of my nagging? Typical! You men are all the same—no gratitude. I gave you children, and now I'm old and worn out, and you find me annoying. Matthew, you're such a jerk! Don't touch me—get off!"

Just as Hayden and I entered the main hall, we saw them—Matthew in a chair with Lindey on his lap, her hands half-heartedly pushing him away as he held her close.

The affection was surprising, especially from a couple their age. Most couples settle into routines, and such moments usually remain private.

Hayden and I froze, unsure whether to intrude or discreetly retreat. My face burned. Here we were, faking a relationship, witnessing a profoundly genuine moment between a married couple. The awkwardness was palpable.

I considered a quiet escape…

But Lindey's Toy Poodle, recognizing me, erupted in excited barks and tail wags. I'd spoiled the little creature extensively during my stays, and it clearly hadn't forgotten.

The barking caught Matthew's attention. He looked up, his expression mirroring my awkwardness before releasing Lindey.

"You're such a goof," Lindey muttered, playfully tugging his ear.

Matthew took her hand, lowering his voice. "Rea's here."