Thorns Grow After Betrayal (Celeste and Chester) novel Chapter 149

But right now, Raymond had completely lost control. "I don't want it! I want the one Mom gave me! I want my mom! Only hers!" he cried, over and over, his voice hoarse with desperation.

His words were heartbreaking; anyone who heard him would be moved to tears.

Yet Celestine only tossed aside the lucky charm in her hand, her expression cold and numb, watching from the sidelines as if none of this had anything to do with her.

Chester, meanwhile, had finally run out of patience. He snapped, "Celestine, do you really have to push everyone to the edge? I'm done with this act of yours—like the world owes you something, like you're the most wronged woman on earth! Have you got any conscience left? Raymond is your son, your own flesh and blood, not some orphan or foster child! You want a divorce? Fine. I agree. As soon as the birthday dinner is over, we'll sign the papers."

"Fine. That's your promise," Celestine replied calmly.

In the stunned silence that followed, Celestine smiled for the first time that day—a genuine, unguarded smile.

"Mr. Fordham," she said softly, "I hope you'll remember what you said tonight, and never regret it."

"Of course I will!" Chester ground the words out between clenched teeth.

If he didn't make Celestine suffer some real consequences this time, she'd think she could do whatever she wanted!

"Hmm, seems I picked a bad moment to show up," came a man's voice, tinged with amusement and surprise.

Everyone started, caught off guard.

Celestine turned with a smile toward the newcomer. "On the contrary, Mr. Prescott, your timing is perfect."

Gideon emerged from the shadows at the far end of the pool.

Only then did the guests realize that along the west side of the pool, just next to the corridor, there was a row of benches. The overhead light in that corner was out, leaving the area in deep shadow. Unless you looked closely, you'd never notice someone sitting there—especially someone in a gray suit like Gideon's.

No one knew how long he'd been there.

Verify captcha to read the contentVerify