Chapter 35

Hayden.

The mood shifted, becoming far less tense, much more relaxed.

“You’re from the Jackson family and still need money?” Marlon smiled gently. The Jacksons, while not on the same level as the Parkers, were still quite well-off in Elysiumville. Yvonne shouldn't have felt insecure.

I hesitated. Sophia was still pregnant with Yosef's child, and with Joanna and Quinn keeping a close watch, it seemed unlikely the Jackson family would fall under my control. Moreover, the business my mother left me was hardly substantial, and trying to establish myself with it in Elysiumville was far from sufficient.

Marlon seemed to see through me. “Do you want to take control of the entire Jackson family?” he asked suddenly.

I looked up, meeting his gentle gaze. “What do you mean?”

“Your father remarried, and I’ve heard your stepmother can be difficult. Life with the Jackson family can’t be easy for you, right?” Marlon said, understanding my situation well.

Even Hayden had never mentioned such things. I felt cautious. “Have you been investigating my background?”

“Just trying to understand my partner’s situation,” Marlon replied earnestly.

I shot him a cold look. “This is my family issue, Mr. Warner. I don’t need your help.”

Marlon’s eyes registered my reluctance, a hint of hurt appearing. He sighed. “I just want to help you, Yvonne. You really don’t have to face this alone.”

How did he know I was struggling? My mother had passed away, my father had started a new family, and my husband had betrayed me—I was utterly alone. Marlon had looked out for me from the start, but why? Just as I was about to ask, an icy voice from outside interrupted. “You two are having quite the chat, aren’t you?”

I didn't need to turn around to know it was Hayden. He actually came. I couldn’t help but smile ironically—I’d thought he wouldn't even spare me a glance if I died.

Marlon turned his gaze, sneering. “I saw Ms. Jackson alone with a high fever in the emergency room, so I came to check on her.” It was as if he were reminding Hayden of his responsibility as my husband.

Hayden looked at me. “Didn’t Rita come with you?”

I didn't answer, turning back to the bed and pulling the blanket over my ears. Given my weakness, I lacked the energy for conversation.

Though I couldn't see Hayden’s expression, I felt the room’s temperature plummet.

Marlon remained silent, but Richard interjected awkwardly. “Mr. Parker, Ms. Charlotte just called. She said she accidentally twisted her ankle and wants to know if you could go over…”

I slowly opened my eyes, staring blankly at the heart monitor nearby. Would Hayden leave?