Chapter 51

It was obvious Joanna had stolen Hayden away; wasn't Nevin slightly unhinged? Xander barely registered this, however. After hearing Hayden's account, he exploded, his beard bristling. “What do you mean, ‘stolen’? You’re still a kid! You're asking for a beating. Go stand outside!”

My eyes narrowed. The Parker family rarely used punishment beyond watercress picking. Standing outside was unprecedented.

Nevin bared his teeth, refusing to concede. “If you want to!” He fled.

“Every damn day, you’re the most troublesome,” Xander muttered, tossing two books at Nevin’s retreating back.

Nevin patted his rear and exited, unfazed.

Xander felt his blood pressure spike and leaned against his desk, feeling dizzy. “Grandpa, are you alright?” Hayden rushed to his aid.

Xander shook his head, his gaze settling on me. “Yvonne, the Parker family owes you an apology. I can’t believe this kid…” His jaw clenched. He knew Nevin caused trouble, but this was beyond comprehension.

“It’s in the past. I’m not taking it to heart,” I said slowly. I never expected an explanation; they were all Parkers; who would stand up for an outsider? It was important to know one's place. If Hayden hadn't mentioned it, I wouldn't have. But Xander valued reputation. Knowing this, he wouldn't let it go.

He sighed, sitting back. After a long pause, he spoke. “When your grandfather passed away, he entrusted you to the Parkers. I’ve let him down.”

My grandfather… I’d begged him to negotiate the marriage, but now felt immense regret. He must have been disappointed. Even in death, my actions likely disturbed his rest.

I opened my mouth, but Xander produced a file. “This is the blueprint and related documents for the Pax Oceana. Consider it compensation from the Parker family.”

His offer surprised me. I didn’t need it; Deborah had already gifted me a villa. They were a family that used material things to atone.

“Since childhood, that brat Nevin has been spoiled rotten. I know he’s gotten into fights. Regardless, you’re still his sister-in-law; help him out,” Xander added.

I understood; the Pax Oceana wasn't just compensation, but protection for Nevin. It was a luxury cruise ship under the Parker Group, with annual entertainment revenue exceeding hundreds of millions. Xander was investing heavily… but I wanted to sever ties with the Parkers. “I can’t accept this.” I wouldn't help Nevin.

Xander froze, his gaze intensifying.

Hayden, silent until now, spoke. “If Grandpa’s giving this to you, then take it.”

Surprised, I stared at him. Before I could react, Hayden shoved the blueprint into my hands, telling Xander, “Grandpa, Yvonne understands. We’ll handle this matter ourselves.”

“Alright.” Xander nodded, satisfied.

“Then we’ll take our leave.” Hayden took my hand and started to leave.

At the door, I yanked my hand away. “What are you doing? I don’t need you making decisions for me!” I was angry. Why did he presume to act on my behalf?

Hayden turned, his charming eyes intense. “So, what do you want to do? Tell Grandpa you want Nevin to go to jail?”

“He needs to face consequences,” I replied, my voice rising. Nearby maids turned to look. I didn’t care; I’d reached my breaking point. But Hayden pulled me away.

Back at Rosy House, I showered. Looking in the mirror, I noticed a large, throbbing bruise on my lower back. I hadn’t noticed it earlier.

I reached for ointment when Hayden burst in. I hastily pulled my nightshirt down, snapping, “What’s your problem? Can’t you knock?”

“This is my house,” he retorted. He frowned. “Pull your shirt up.”

“What?” I thought I’d misheard.

He gave me a cold look, reaching for my nightshirt.

I recoiled. “What are you doing?”

“There’s a bruise on your back,” he said, his eyes fixed on it.

I froze, realizing he’d seen it. My expression darkened. “It’s none of your business.”

“I’ll call the doctor,” he said.

“I’m not that delicate. I’ll just put on some ointment,” I retorted. I didn't want a scene.

He paused, then offered, “I’ll help you put on the ointment.”

My eyes widened. Before I could react, he took the ointment. He was genuinely trying to help.

“I can do it myself,” I said, refusing.

“Are you afraid of Grandma finding out? Or are you just scared of me?” His eyes seemed to draw me in.

I scoffed. “Scared of you? Come on, Hayden. It’s always you avoiding me.”

He frowned, falling silent. I thought he’d give up, but then I felt a chill against my lower back.

“You…” I started to scold him, but a finger pressed gently against the bruise. I winced.

The bruises hurt more than I’d realized. Nevin's strength was absurd. Hayden’s voice rose in frustration. “Why didn’t you say anything? You’ve been putting up with this all day!”

I turned to take the ointment. “Am I supposed to bring it up so you guys can mock me?”

I headed for the bathroom, but Hayden grabbed my wrist. “Yvonne, do you really see me this way?”

“Isn’t it true?” I retorted, bracing myself for his gaze, the shadow of him looming like a solar eclipse.