Chapter 81

Emmanuel regained his composure, swallowing back the outburst. “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have snapped at you,” he said softly.

In the past, he had gone to great lengths to win Tabitha’s favor. Now that he was injured, it seemed the perfect chance to gain her sympathy. How could he willingly distance himself from her just because of his fear that Jayden might harm her?

Tabitha smiled. “It’s alright, I’m not upset.”

It was Christmas Day, and Emmanuel found himself alone in the sterile. hospital room, hiding his injuries from his family and enduring the pain. in isolation.

With only a handful of friends he could count on, his situation seemed somewhat pitiful.

After a brief moment of contemplation, Tabitha took out a thoughtful gift from her bag and handed it to Emmanuel. “Merry Christmas. Here’s a little something for you. I wish you good luck for the year ahead.”

Emmanuel was slightly surprised. Tabitha, though younger than him, spoke with such sincere charm.

He chuckled helplessly, “I’m older than you. A gift for me, eh?”

“We swap gifts to spread love and joy during Christmas,” Tabitha explained casually. “I’m all about spreading kindness, especially how. And, you know, it’s just a small something to brighten up your day.“”

“Well, that’s sweet of you.” Emmanuel took the gift from Tabitha and said sincerely, “Thanks for the thoughtful present and your kind words.”

Tabitha continued chatting with him for a bit. Sensing Emmanuel’s low energy, she figured it was time to head out. “I’ll come to visit you again

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Chapter 81

when I have time.”

027% 15:07

Tabitha took off. Suddenly, a weird and new feeling welled

at

in his hands, Emmanuel could not help but feel a peculiar

had never once received a gift that carried

first Christmas present he ever got came from Tabitha, leaving him with a conflicting mix of frustration and, secretly, an

a moment, a darker thought

to ruin Tabitha’s relationship with Malcolm, aiming to foster disdain for Malcolm in Alaric’s eyes.

move to pursue Tabitha after she gets a divorce with Malcolm, would Granddad change his opinion toward me if he witnesses my close relationship

lost in his thoughts, Emmanuel received a call

put up a gentle front. “What’s the matter?”

called Malcolm, and he was talking about taking me for an

persuade Malcolm to spend time with her had fallen through. The latter, however, went against her hopes. Not only did Malcolm refuse, citing a busy schedule, but he also brought up the sensitive subject

in response. His tone

027% 15:07

Chapter 81

“Did you say something stupid in front of

growing suspicious of me. Mr. Sinclair, I’m thinking of inducing a miscarriage and pinning it on

“But the child is yours. I should get your opinion

a miscarriage, that’s her choice. Why is she trying

and the roasted turkey she

do you plan to shift the blame to

“Her health isn’t great, right? Maybe I can kill two birds with one

involuntarily, an instinctive aversion kicking in at

and her lips. had lost their usual color, showing

Or is it that… you couldn’t bring yourself

bring myself to? How is

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