Cold husband burning regret

Regret Novel 162

Charlotte’s expression darkened, and she was just about to speak when Wesley cut her off, his tone sharp with irritation. “Miss Howard, who I keep company with is my own business. And you? You have no right to dictate my choices.”

Genevieve stood there stunned. Other than her brother, no man had ever dared to speak to her like that–let alone do it right in front of Charlotte.

“Mr. Rayburn, you don’t even realize that she’s actually-” Genevieve stopped short, words caught in her throat, her chest tight with frustration.

She’d meant to say Charlotte was her sister–in–law, but she’d never fully accepted it herself. Besides, with her brother keeping the marriage a secret, if she blurted it out now, wouldn’t she just ruin his engagement to Tricia?

Charlotte, fully aware of what Genevieve was trying to say, gave a cold, taunting smile. “I’m actually what, Genevieve?”

Genevieve bit her lip, unable to swallow her anger. “You’re nothing but a

gold–digger! A leech! It’s not enough you set your sights on my brother; now you’re trying to cozy up to Mr. Pembroke, and even Mr. Rayburn isn’t safe from you!”

Wesley stepped smoothly in front of Charlotte, giving Genevieve a cool, measured smile. “So this is the kind of manners they teach in the Howard family?”

“Mr. Rayburn-”

“Genevieve!” Ilse’s voice cut through the tension as she hurried over, catching sight of Charlotte standing behind Wesley. A flicker of surprise crossed her face.

worth her attention. She hadn’t expected Charlotte could win Mr. Rayburn’s protection. Maybe she’d underestimated her

gentle smile as she approached. “Please, Mr. Rayburn, don’t take offense. This is my fault–I haven’t raised Genevieve strictly enough, and she’s gotten a bit spoiled. She always speaks her mind,

Jensen?” Wesley’s smile faded, though he kept his tone polite. “It’s impressive how an insult can be dressed up so

hear the bite in his words; her pride stung. But

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Chapter 162

and was the matriarch’s favorite. Ilse, meanwhile, had only given birth to a daughter and suffered from ill health ever

marry Genevieve into the Rayburn family,

“Lottie, we’re all family here. Grandma is so fond of you. I had no idea you and Mr. Rayburn were friends. Genevieve

a hint of curiosity in his expression at the word

Genevieve burst out, “Mom!

the Howard

mother was truly angry, Genevieve shrank back and

don’t think I can accept this ‘family‘

off guard

how could she explain that now and expose Charlotte as the Howard family’s