Chapter 52

“Given all this, you still want to marry me by any means necessary?” Hayden squinted, leaning in close. His nose was almost touching mine.

I instinctively held my breath, my body rigid. The slightest movement might brush against him, leaving me speechless.

After a tense silence, I finally said, “Had I known it would come to this, I would rather have died than marry you.” It was too late for regrets.

Hayden’s pupils constricted. His gaze was a whirlwind of confusion, shock, and disbelief. Before I could react, he pushed away and left the room.

The spacious bedroom was instantly empty, the biting wind from the balcony whistling in defiance. A deep wound opened in my heart, pain throbbing through my soul. Hurting Hayden hurt me just as much.

Shortly after, Rita entered, carrying medicine. “Mrs. Parker, you’re hurt? Let me help.”

I paused, remembering Hayden’s words. The injury was on my back, making self-treatment difficult, so I let her attend to it.

Rita, already aware of Nevin’s situation, vented angrily as she applied the medicine. “How could Nevin be so cruel? Your skin is so delicate! Seeing those bruises breaks my heart!”

Her defense was unusual. I smiled faintly. “He’s never liked me.”

“He’s just a brat, thinking you stole Hayden’s attention. I heard he’s been kneeling for over three hours! Xander’s furious this time!” Rita added.

“Three hours?” I frowned, realizing it had been nearly that long since I left the Parker residence. Nevin was still kneeling?

“Yes! Mrs. Parker, rest. Call if you need anything,” Rita said before hurrying out, eager to share the news.

Nevin’s predicament stemmed from the Parker family’s indulgence. I was surprised Xander actually punished him.

My day off began with relaxation at home. I planned to meet Stanley in the afternoon.

At Jackson Law Firm, Stanley’s secretary led me to his office. “Mr. Jackson will be back shortly. Please have a seat.”

I nodded and waited. This was my first time in his new office; it was impressive. His desk was impeccably organized, reflecting his meticulous nature. A single exception caught my eye: a picture frame beside his computer holding a photo of him and his ex-girlfriend in graduation robes.

I remembered my cousin’s youthful sparkle. He hadn’t dated since their breakup, years ago. He was still hung up on his first love.

The door opened. Stanley entered. Noticing me looking at the picture, he said casually, “It’s just a keepsake.”

“Are you explaining that to me or yourself?” I chuckled, choosing not to pry. Everyone has their own stories.

I put down the frame. “Are you really taking Jamie’s case?”

Chapter 52 (Continued)

“This is a case only I can handle,” Stanley stated.

I rubbed my nose. “That’s true, but your expression was a bit…proud.”

Stanley smirked. “Isn’t excessive humility hypocrisy? No lawyer in Elysiumville dares offend the Parkers.” He was a legal genius, succeeding at a young age. Powerful figures treated him cautiously.

I nodded. “True. Not everyone is as exceptional as you, standing up to the powerful.”

“Not quite,” Stanley corrected, his expression turning serious. “Because Hayden is my brother-in-law.”

My smile faded. “Not for long.”

“For now, Hayden doesn’t seem to want a divorce,” Stanley said confidently, having spoken to Hayden the previous night.

My good mood vanished. “Let’s not talk about him—what are your plans?”

Stanley smiled, pulling out a chair. “Why so serious? You’re here.” He sat, handing me two files.

“I reviewed the six-month-old case. With this new information about Nevin striking first, we have a good chance of winning. He’ll likely get at least three years. But…the Parkers won’t let that happen,” Stanley explained.

He’d considered everything, including why he could take the case. Others would be crushed, but his relationship with Hayden would deter rash Parker actions. Being a Jackson had its advantages.

I flipped through the files. “So, we’re out of options?”

“Not exactly. Didn’t the Parkers give you a cruise ship?” Stanley asked playfully.

I froze. “How did you know?”

“It’s the talk of the town,” Stanley said, stroking his chin. “The Parkers are generous. That ship’s annual income could fund the Jackson Group for years.”

Before I could reply, Jamie burst in, pointing at me. “Yvonne, did you take a bribe to make me withdraw the lawsuit? I can’t believe I thought we were friends!”