Ellison And Joycelyn: A Love Beyond The Rules

Chapter 4

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“Joycelyn, please.” Iris’s soft voice carried a subtle rebuke. “Phines wants what’s best for you–a stable future.” Her swollen. eyes betrayed hours of tears, yet here she was, still playing peacemaker,

Exhaustion swept through Joycelyn as she closed her eyes and drew a steadying breath. “That hundred–thousand–dollar engagement gift–why not sell off your own precious daughter stead?”

“God. I wouldn’t marry that troll.” Octavia drawled from her perch on the couch, her lips curling into a cruel smile. “You should grab the offer while you’re young enough to command a decent price. Once you hit thirty, you’ll be damaged goods.” Cold fury settled in Joycelyn’s chest as she met her mother’s eyes “Mom, is that really what you think too?”

Her mother’s averted gaze spoke volumes. The message was clear–Joycelyn had no real place in this family.

“Octavia.” Iris’s weak protest earned only a contemptuous eye roll from her daughter.

“Either marry him tomorrow or get out of my house!” Phineas’s voice thundered through the room.

disappointment. “What was the point

parmer. A married daughter is like water under

to your father, dear,” Iris whispered, thoroughly

could have frozen hell as

out!” he roared. “Get out of my house, you ungrateful shake. Let’s see how long you last on your own, you worthless

in Joycelyn’s heart as she watched her mother’s passive acceptance. Without a word, she stuffed her clothes into a suitcase and strode toward the

Phineas off guard. “And don’t bother coming back!” he shouted

took her suitcase and got into the

un came out.

hammered the streets as

mingled with rain on her face as she dragged her suitcase through

dropped into a crouch, hands clasped over her head. These storms had haunted her since the rainy night that claimed her father’s de.

wind howled, driving sheets of rain sideways. Tonight, even basic survival seemed an impossible task.

phone–x battery. They say God never closes a door without opening a window, she