Cold husband burning regret

Regret Novel 144

“I thought it was something serious.” Wesley called Julian into the room, then turned to Charlotte. “However many people you need, just let Julian know.”

Julian quickly took his place beside Charlotte, eager to please. “Miss Sterling, do you need some extra hands?”

Charlotte was caught off guard by Wesley’s easy agreement. She’d half expected her request to be out of line.

She thought for a moment. “I won’t need many. Two should be enough.”

“Two? That’s not nearly enough.” Wesley propped his chin on his hand. “I’m not exactly short on staff here. Let’s say four, just to be safe. Julian will pick them out for you and make sure they know what you need.”

“If you’re assigning me your people, then what about your mother…?”

“My mother will be fine. Julian and I will look after her.”

As if on cue, Mrs. Rayburn must have overheard. She strolled over, beaming at Charlotte. “Sweetheart, I’m right here.” She held up a doll she’d just finished dressing up. “Look, I made you look so pretty!”

Charlotte smiled warmly. “She’s beautiful.”

“You’re my daughter–of course you’re the prettiest!” Mrs. Rayburn giggled, her eyes full of joy as she gazed at Charlotte./

Later, Julian led four bodyguards to Hiram’s hospital room. He left them waiting outside and entered with Charlotte, glancing toward the boy lying in bed. “Miss Sterling, is this your brother?”

Charlotte nodded.

muttered, “You two don’t

related by

you’re

sigh. “I was adopted by the

you must be

situation: if someone

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must be

didn’t give him the full story either. “Something like that. Right

she could only trust the Rayburn

finished briefing the bodyguards outside, he went back to report

Sterlings are just an average family. They’re not exactly high society here in the Capital. Who could they have possibly

imagine a minor family offending

took a sip of his coffee. “Isn’t Vandermere Private Hospital owned by

Julian nodded. “That’s right.”

must have something to do with the Howards.” Julian’s eyes widened.

doubt it’s that simple.” Wesley moved to the window, gazing out at the city skyline. “More likely, there’s some kind of history between them. Maybe she’s trying to break away from