Chapter 189

Lucy’s team withdrew after confirming Paisley’s safe departure. The mess didn't bother her; with Dominick there, the Sullivans and Jackmans wouldn't dare make a sound. She left a hefty sum for the hotel, more than enough to cover the damage.

Gary grinned, falling into step beside her. "Ms. Green, wait up! Let's discuss the lead role." His words were a pointed insult to Brittany, who seethed, taking a step forward before Gregory's warning glance stopped her.

Grayson tugged at Dominick's hand, tears welling. "Dad, let's go. I don't want to stay." Shaken, Dominick scooped up his son and started to leave.

Gregory scrambled after them. "Mr. Vanderbilt, it's not what it looks like! Paisley's my daughter. I just… she was stubborn, made mistakes, and I had to discipline her. I didn't think she'd cut us off. I was worried about her, wanted to help her find a match. The Jackmans seemed suitable. I told them not to spoil her, it was for her own good!"

Dominick stopped, a grim expression on his face. The words echoed his own justifications to Paisley. Had he ever truly listened to her? He'd given her a home, but was that what she wanted? He’d been consumed by work, neglecting her, convinced he knew best. When she didn't respond as expected, he'd assumed she was difficult. "So that's it," he murmured, a bitter smile twisting his lips. The irony was brutal.

He ignored Gregory, clutching Grayson’s hand. The Jackmans, fearing his wrath, rushed after him. "Dominick, this isn't our fault! The Sullivans brought us in!" Gregory nearly collapsed. Christina, however, only cared about Brittany. "Mr. Vanderbilt, wait! What about Brittany?!"

Dominick didn't even glance back, striding towards the waiting car, the rain a cold curtain as he exited.

Chapter 189

The rain had become a deluge when Paisley reached home. Serena, delighted, ran to her. "Mommy, you're back!"

Paisley held her close, the gloom lifting. Serena's presence was her solace.

"Mommy, it's raining," Serena said, pointing at the window.

"Yes, it's pouring," Paisley replied, puzzled.

"When it rains, Max next door hurts," Serena explained.

Paisley’s eyebrow arched. Seeing Serena’s concern, she ruffled her hair. "Worried about Max?"

"Yes," Serena nodded. "I like Max. Mommy, can you help him?"

Maria sighed. "She's been talking about Max since you left!"

Maria had formed a positive opinion of their neighbors. Leo had fixed a broken pipe without hesitation. The man with the injured leg was gentle with Serena. Maria even liked him.

Paisley was confused. When had this happened?

The doorbell rang. Maria saw Leo on the intercom, anxious. "Maria, is Paisley home? My boss needs her."

Maria agreed, but Paisley was speechless. "Excuse me? Did anyone ask me?"