Chapter 312

Hester’s face flushed crimson. She had never expected such callous dismissal from Juan, but she couldn’t deny the truth in his words. Her family was a minor household, and every socialite in Seamar City dreamed of becoming Mrs. Nichols.

Juan observed her mortified expression and demanded, “Get out. I won’t repeat myself.”

Hester bit her lip and reluctantly stormed from the room. Joe, who had silently observed the exchange, stepped forward. “Sir, Miss Vargas is just a naive girl. There’s no need to be so harsh.”

“Are you telling me how to do my job?”

“I dare not, sir.”

In the past, Juan had always been more tolerant of young girls, even if only for show. He would never have spoken so harshly to one. Moreover, the Vargas and Nichols families shared a decent relationship, making his abrupt dismissal of Hester all the more surprising.

Juan stated, “From today on, I don’t want any outsiders in this house. Do you understand?”

“Yes, I’ll take care of it.” Joe nodded and left.

Downstairs, Sophie was busy packing Hester’s things. Hester had only moved in the day before to care for Melody, and now she was being unceremoniously dismissed. Her face was a mask of grim resignation as she addressed Melody. “Mrs. Nichols, your condition isn’t stable yet. I can’t leave you like this.”

Melody sighed, her voice tinged with weariness. “You’re useless. You can’t even hold onto a man’s heart. What can you do?”

Juan had become increasingly disobedient, and she lacked the energy to…