Chapter 76: Their First and Last Date

“Grandma’s right,” Raylee acknowledged. “I’m soon to be married to Jeremiah. He will protect me; I don’t need you!”

“Are you sure he can protect you, and not harm you?” Casimir asked seriously.

“Since Grandma’s here, I might as well speak frankly. It’s not too late to ask Grandma to call off the engagement. That man is no good!”

“Jeremiah is no good?” Vera fretted. “When your mother introduced him, she said that despite being illegitimate, he’s a decent, capable man.”

“Grandma, do you know, he—”

Before Casimir could finish, Raylee’s cold voice cut him short. “Mr. Sutherland, please refrain from speaking nonsense in front of my grandmother. Who I marry is none of your business. If you’re finished, you should leave. My grandmother just woke up and needs to rest.”

“Fine. You think I’m spouting nonsense? You’ll regret this!” Casimir stormed off.

Vera watched his angry departure, worried. “It doesn’t seem like Casimir was just spouting nonsense. If Jeremiah truly isn’t a good person, Raylee, you better call off this wedding.”

Raylee shook her head. “Grandma, didn’t you notice Casimir’s ulterior motives?”

Vera sighed. “I did. Casimir still has feelings for you. It’s ironic! If he’d shown such enthusiasm four years ago, Waverly wouldn’t stand a chance.”

Seven days later, Vera’s health had improved, and Raylee’s injuries had mostly healed. They returned to Goodridge Manor. Raylee contacted Jeremiah, and they arranged a hike at Whitehorn Mountain in Snowdale the following day.

The next morning, Jeremiah arrived at Goodridge Manor, presenting Raylee with flowers. His formality surprised her, making her feel cherished. After missing last Christmas, they’d barely kept in touch. After much hesitation, Raylee decided not to tell him about the psychiatric hospital. She could have sought his support, and believed he would protect her, just as he had shot Samuel by the pool. But she didn’t want to become reliant on his affection; they weren't married, and she didn’t want to burden him. Jeremiah also tended to extremes; she didn’t want to owe him favors she didn’t understand.

Witnessing Jeremiah present Raylee with flowers, Vera’s mood brightened. “Well, I must admit, I envy your sweet romance. Go have fun, don’t worry about this old lady.”

2:00 PM

Chapter 76: Their First and Last Date (Finished)

“Grandma, I’ll bring your favorite scones back from Heritage Bakery,” Raylee announced, kissing Vera before leaving with Jeremiah.

As Jeremiah reached the doorway, he glanced at Raylee—a chilling look crossed his handsome face.

“What’s wrong?” Raylee asked.

“Nothing,” Jeremiah said, instantly regaining his usual demeanor. He smiled warmly. “Raylee, mountain climbing is strenuous—can you handle it? This is our first official date, and I wasn’t sure hiking was the right choice. We could see a movie or go to a concert instead.”

Raylee shook her head. “Hiking is fine. I’ve wanted to go to Whitehorn Mountain. There’s an ancient mural halfway up; I visited four years ago, but the weather was bad.” A shadow fell over her face. “By the time I wanted to go again, I was in prison.”

“All right, let’s go!”

The drive from Lexburgh to Whitehorn Mountain was two hours. Jeremiah drove, heading toward their first—and last—date.

The rising sun illuminated the car, making it feel cozy. Raylee gazed at the passing scenery, enjoying the breeze. Suddenly, an off-road vehicle roared past. Raylee thought she recognized Casimir driving it. She frowned; she was on a date with Jeremiah, yet still thinking of Casimir.

They arrived at the foot of Whitehorn Mountain, and a luxurious off-road vehicle stopped nearby. Samuel, Waverly, Casimir, and his sister Shanice emerged.