Chapter 285

Thea remained calm despite Kelly's perfect speech. The grandly decorated living room provided a stark contrast to the tense atmosphere as Kelly and Lily dined, their faces grim. Where was Joyce? Probably crying, Thea guessed.

Thea's gaze was sharp. "You don't deserve to be Joyce's mother. This isn't her home. You constantly exploit her. When have you ever shown her love?"

"If you'd asked Joyce, I wouldn't have interfered. But clearly, you don't deserve my respect," Thea stated bluntly. Kelly's expression darkened, but she dared not act against Thea while the tall man—Nicolas—stood beside her.

Kelly tried to control her tone. "Is this the Rowland daughter? Mr. Hendrix, you're close to my husband. Will you let your wife destroy my family?" She wouldn't relinquish Joyce; Nicolas was too powerful to offend. Joyce's marriage was merely a stepping stone for Lily to secure a better match. Offending Nicolas would ruin everything.

Lily's lips trembled. "Mr. Hendrix, Mother is unwell. Please excuse us. How could parents not love their children? Mother struggled to raise my sister; she only wants her to have a good life."

Nicolas's expression was cold. "Thea, do whatever you want. I'll take responsibility." He would protect her, even if it meant antagonizing an elder.

Thea's heart warmed, but her smile remained cold. "You're afraid Joyce will live too well! You married her into the Xander family—do you know what kind of people they are? You're forcing her! Mrs. Maddox, if you don't let me take Joyce, I'll tear this house down."

Thea meant it. She'd offend the Maddox family for Joyce. She remembered Joyce's bright spirit before Kelly and Lily's return, when she was her parents' beloved daughter. Now, she was a disposable tool. But Thea wouldn't abandon her.

As Thea resolved herself, a voice interrupted: "Trespassing and vandalism are illegal."

Kelly smirked, surprised by the betrayal. "Did you hear that? Your accomplice says you're breaking the law. I'm Joyce's mother, and I won't harm her. I welcome you to the wedding."

Another voice cut her off: "Kidnapping is illegal."

Jamie, though young, spoke with exceptional firmness. "I've contacted the Bangolware police. Miss Maddox is an adult; no one can restrict her freedom. I've given you notice. Respect the law."

Even Thea was impressed. She'd thought Joyce had found a cute boy; he was brave and responsible. Nicolas blocked Thea's view. Kelly's smile vanished.

"Who are you? A child? Provoking me in my house? No one dares touch the Maddoxes!"

Jamie, despite his casual attire, showed his handcuffs. "I'm a police officer. I have a warrant. Those who threaten my girlfriend's safety won't go unpunished. Only the police can legally imprison people."

Even Kelly, his potential mother-in-law, wouldn't deter him. Thea cheered inwardly; Joyce had excellent taste in men. Jamie, a rookie, dared to confront the powerful Maddoxes. Thea didn't know Jamie wasn't an ordinary officer.

Shock registered on Kelly's face; she stepped back. Lily stepped in front of her mother, their greatest asset. "Don't touch my mother!"

Kelly's eyes warmed; Lily was considerate. Lily questioned Joyce's relationship with Corey, implying infidelity.

Thea shouted, "Shut up! Why did she lie about Corey? Don't you know?" Joyce was trying to escape a forced marriage. Thea feared Jamie would misunderstand.

Jamie's resolve was unshaken. "I'm not her official boyfriend yet, but I'll be. My love is more sincere than her past relationships." He produced his handcuffs.

Then, Ethan rushed in from outside, having just returned from a trip. He stood before his wife. "Who are you? Check with your superior before touching my wife."