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.

with disappointment. “What was

her off. “I’m your man new–your lifelong parmer. A married daughter is like

to your father, dear,”

father is dead‘ Joycelyn’s words could have

ungrateful shake. Let’s see how long you last on your

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

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

Joycelyn took her suitcase and got into

un came out.

streets as

Tears mingled with rain on her face as she dragged her suitcase through puddles, her clothes plastered to her trembling frame.

split the sky. Thunder crashed overhead. She dropped into a crouch, hands clasped over her head. These storms

she huddled against the plastic wall. The wind howled, driving sheets of

eyes burned from all the crying as she checked her phone–x battery. They say God never closes a door without opening a window, she thought bitterly. “But my life’s just one slammed door