Chapter 537

The atmosphere grew tense. Joe stepped in to alleviate the awkwardness.

“Sir, how about I go get the car? You should head back with Mrs. Nichols. She’s been waiting here throughout your surgery.”

“Yeah, go get the car.”

“I’m not going with you.”

Joe advised her just in time, “Madam, the press is waiting outside. If you don’t leave with us now, the tabloids might spin some nasty rumors.”

Debra considered the situation. Having just reunited with Juan, leaving alone would fuel gossip.

“Let’s go together then.”

Without further argument, the three of them got into the car. As they pulled out of the parking lot, a swarm of reporters rushed forward, cameras flashing and questions flying.

“Lose them.”

“Yes, sir.”

Joe quickly accelerated. Within moments, they had sped past the crowd, leaving the reporters behind.

“Sir, I believe Mrs. Nichols Sr. is still at the house.”

“I already told her to leave.”

“She might not want to go.”

It was no secret that Melody had no intention of making room for Debra. After everything that had happened, Melody’s hatred for Debra had only intensified.

Debra interjected, “It’s fine. If she doesn’t move out, it just gives me more reason to leave the house.” She and Juan had already agreed to a divorce. In a few days, the papers would be finalized, and living together would no longer be an issue.

Juan’s eyes dimmed.

As soon as they were back home, Melody rushed toward Juan and examined his injury.

“Juan, how are you feeling now?”

“I’m fine, Grandma.” Juan pulled his arm away from her touch, his movements cold and distant. The abruptness of his gesture momentarily stunned Melody.

Debra stepped forward and stood beside Juan. Looking at Melody, she said, “Grandma, Juan’s injuries are serious, and he needs proper rest. We’ll be heading upstairs now.”

Only then did Melody seem to notice Debra’s return with Juan. Her face twisted with anger as the memories of the Vargas family’s earlier visit flooded back.

Debra tilted her head and said, “What’s with the face, Grandma? You look like you’re not happy to see me back.”

Melody scoffed, “How could I not be happy to see someone as capable as you?”

Juan frowned. “Debra waited for hours while I was in surgery. She’s exhausted too. Sophie will help you pack your things. You’ll be more comfortable staying at your own place.”

Melody’s expression shifted to one of hurt and disbelief. “Are you really going to send me away? Just now, the Vargas family barged in, demanding money. They said you were the one who gave them the evidence. I raised you from a baby. How could you do this to me?”

Her voice cracked with emotion, tears welling in her eyes as though she were the victim of some cruel injustice.

Juan had heard this kind of emotional manipulation countless times before. His voice was steady, but there was an underlying firmness to it. “Grandma, you ruined Hester’s chastity. It’s only fair you compensate her for that. I won’t be involved in this matter.”