Chapter 268

Carly sprinted into Adrian and Isabella's upscale neighborhood, a whirlwind of motion. The mansion's security was tight; only authorized personnel were allowed entry. She glanced back, relieved to see Connor hot on her heels, only to be stopped at the gates by a guard, Bryan.

"She's my wife!" Connor insisted, "I need to take her home."

Carly, recognizing Bryan from Adrian and Isabella's warning, yelled, "Don't let him in!"

Bryan, momentarily stunned, simply replied, "Alright."

Connor, his face souring, was thwarted. These weren't your average security guards; they were young, hardened military veterans. He wouldn't dare force his way in. Carly, finally breathing easily, carried her groceries inside.

Living with Adrian and Isabella wasn't just about being a guest. She cooked their meals; it was the least she could do. With Adrian and Isabella at work, and Ronald and Damian in kindergarten, only Carly and the housekeeper, Julie White, were home.

Carly sighed. She’d been worried Isabella would notice her distress. Isabella was perceptive, but even Julie had noticed something was amiss.

"Ms. Graham, what's wrong? You look pale," Julie asked, concerned.

Carly shook her head. "Nothing."

Julie insisted, "You should rest. Let me cook."

Carly refused. "No need, I can do it."

Julie sighed. "Why are you being so courteous? I'm paid to do this."

Carly stared, stunned. Julie smiled kindly. "Ms. Graham, rest. Mr. Carter is kind. You don't need to worry about him."

Julie recounted a story about Adrian's generosity towards her son, her voice warm and grateful. "He's already so kind to me, he'll treat you well. You're his wife's sister."

Carly's heart pounded. "I don't have to be so careful?"

She replayed her time with the Carters, realizing their kindness was genuine. She was like Isabella, always cautious, afraid of overstepping boundaries.

"Our lives were uneasy," Carly thought, "but it's different here. Perhaps Connor isn't the only one who needs to change. I need to be braver, more confident, for Ronny's sake."

"I'm fine," Carly told Julie. "My ex-husband, Connor, showed up. He wants me back." She'd kept it secret, but now it felt unnecessary to hide.

An hour later, the kindergarten bus arrived. "Aunt Carly!" Damian yelled. "Mom!" called Ronald.

Carly smiled, ushering them inside. She watched them build with their Lego sets, Damian, once so reserved, now cheerful and sharing with Ronald, who was also blossoming. Their smiles were a stark contrast to their previous, somber lives.