Chapter 113

Author’s Note: Hi guys, I added more chapters. Please reread from Chapter 110; I made some changes. Thank you for supporting this story.

“I’ve pleaded guilty to everything. I know I’ll likely be in jail forever, but I deserve it.”

“I pray the people I’ve hurt find reasons to smile again.”

“Cole is a good man. Connie and I tried to trap him, but failed. I’m comforted knowing he’ll make Hailey happy.”

“I’m just worried about you. We destroyed your relationship with Hailey, and you may now face life alone. My thoughts and prayers are with you; I pray Hailey forgives you.”

Eric wanted to respond but found it difficult. He was angry—at himself, for letting a stranger ruin his life.

The gate swung open violently. An officer entered.

“Your time is up!” he said to Vanessa, escorting her out.

Vanessa rose reluctantly, whispering to Eric, “I’m so sorry.”

Eric looked away as the officer led her away. Once they were gone, he wiped tears from his eyes, wondering how he’d ruined his life.

He looked up at the sound of the gate and saw Connie, in prison attire. Her swollen eyes and lips made her almost unrecognizable.

The officer left, and Connie sat before Eric.

“Is Vanessa my daughter?” he asked, glaring at her.

Connie remained silent.

“So you came into my life to destroy me?”

“Don’t blame me! We’re both at fault. You flirted with me; I seduced you, and you fell for it.”

“I destroyed nothing. You were unhappy at home, and don’t pretend you didn’t enjoy our time together while you were married.”

“If you’d been content, we wouldn’t have met.”

“Poor Anna. I had to eliminate her; she became unbearable. I should have done the same to Hailey.”

Eric gasped, rising in anger and pain. “So you were involved in my wife’s death?”

Connie rolled her eyes, unconcerned about Anna’s death or Eric’s feelings.

Eric suddenly attacked Connie, punching her twice in the face and pushing her to the floor. He was about to hit her again when the officer ran in.

Cole hurried out of his car, opening the passenger door for Hailey. He unbuckled her seatbelt, then carried her bridal-style.

Hailey chuckled, wrapping her arms around his neck. “I can walk, you know.”

“I’m following the doctor’s orders.” Cole closed the door and carried Hailey inside.

He took her to her bedroom and sat her on the bed, placing pillows behind her. He kissed her forehead and pulled away.

“Welcome home. Bath first, or should I make you something to eat?”

“I’m not hungry.”

“Sure?”

She nodded.

“Fruit after my shower.”

“I’ll run you a bath; it’ll soothe your muscles.”

Hailey shook her head. “Shower. You can join me.”

“No. I’ll shower after you.”

Hailey frowned. “Aren’t you supposed to take care of me? What if I fall?” she pouted.

“You won’t. I’ll help you, but I’m not showering with you,” Cole said gently. “I have a cut and bruises, and you avoid me! Where’s your love?”

Cole was about to defend himself when she interrupted. “I don’t need your help.”

“Babe!” He took her hand, but she shrugged him off.

Hailey got out of bed and stormed into the bathroom. Cole followed, but she slammed the door in his face. “Babe! My love,” he knocked. “I’m sorry, please let me in?” “Honey?” He knocked again, but got no answer. Sighing, he left the bedroom.

Cole went to the kitchen to check for fruit. His phone buzzed; he answered it.

“Hey,” he said.

“Are you okay?” Jess asked, concerned.

“Yes. You?”

“I’m good. How’s Hailey?”

“She’s better.”

“That’s good. Are you coming to the trial tomorrow? The judge will give the ruling. Ludacris isn’t sure if Hailey will be there.”

“I’m not sure, but I think Hailey would want us there. What time?”

“9.”

“Possibly. I’ll text you.”

“Okay. I’m glad this will soon be over.”

09:23 Mon, 15 Jul

Chapter 113

“Me too. Connie, Vanessa, and her stupid fans! The courthouse will be crowded tomorrow because of Vanessa’s supposed fame.”

“That’s why I called. Will you both be there?”