Chapter 17

Grace paused, slowly turning. The car was shrinking into a small black dot on the road.

“Perhaps there will never be another man who will wholeheartedly treat me well, regardless of my criminal record. The problem is, I don’t want to drag him down with me.”

She watched until the car disappeared, then turned toward home. She didn’t notice the black Bentley parked nearby. Inside, someone lazily watched her, a faint smile playing on their lips.

Terrence, in the front seat, nervously checked the rearview mirror. Observing his boss, he thought, That look on Mr. Reed’s face… he’s about to explode!

He mentally berated Grace: If you’re going home, just go home! Why did you let another man drive you? What will Mr. Reed think?

At first, I thought it would be good for Mr. Reed to see Grace. Now, I’m praying I won’t be the punching bag instead!

Terrence broke the silence. “Mr. Reed, I believe… Miss Cummins had some errands and needed a ride.”

Jason gave Terrence an unreadable look. “Why? Are you interceding for her?”

A chill ran down Terrence’s spine. He wisely remained silent. Looks like Grace is the one who needs prayers!

Meanwhile, Grace arrived at her rented home. She switched on the lights, placed her eight-dollar meal on the table, and went to wash her hands. Years of hard work had left her hands rough and calloused.

She hoped her words to Chase hadn’t been too hurtful. She chuckled. If they hadn’t affected him, he'd continue wasting his time. Either way, there would be consequences.

She sighed, looking at her reflection. Her uncle’s problems, her grandmother’s illness… she felt overwhelmed.

Emerging from the bathroom, Grace froze. Jason sat at the small table, playing with a key. That key… She’d given it to him at the hospital, never asking for it back, never changing the lock. He’d had easy access.

“Why… are you here?” she asked awkwardly.

“If I hadn’t come, how would I know someone drove you home?” Jason stood, walking toward her. “The driver was that fellow from the Sanitation Service Center, right?”

Grace was stunned. He saw Chase?

She pursed her lips, remaining silent.

He cupped her chin. “Why? Is he the reason you won’t stay with me? What is he to you?”

“It’s none of your business!” She tried to pull away, but his grip was too strong.