Ex Cried as I Wed a Tycoon

Adeline could hear the strain in Mitchell Lloyd's voice, and her nerves instantly tightened. "What's wrong? Who's in trouble?" she asked, her voice trembling.

Mitchell's reply came quick and anxious. "It's me."

A chill ran through Adeline; an ominous premonition seized her.

After Mitchell finished explaining what had happened, Adeline couldn't help but snap, “You little... sweetheart!" Her words were sharp but laced with anxious affection.

Mitchell was too desperate to care about her scolding. "Mom, please, you have to help me. I... I don't want to go to jail."

Adeline's mind raced. She would never let Mitchell end up behind bars. If he went to prison, she'd lose every bargaining chip she had left.

"I know what to do. Don't move, just stay where you are and wait for the police to find you," she instructed, her tone urgent.

If Mitchell ran, it would look like he was trying to flee from his crime.

She hung up, ready to rush out the door, but Mitchell's father blocked her path.

a steely, almost threatening gaze. "As long as you agree

"Are you even human? That's your son! And you're using him to

shrugged, looking at her with a smirk and that shameless air he always wore. "My hands are

Adeline was cornered now, certain she'd come

to negotiate, Adeline stormed out, slamming

go, the corner of his mouth curling into a smug smile. He

Etheridge out of the

curb, she broke away from Lyman's hand and sprinted toward

called, her voice trembling with relief.

had weighed on her heart

into her grandmother's arms, hugging her tight, just like she used to as a child

soothing and warm.

tears threatening to spill over. Her face was swollen from

let herself cry. Ever since losing her mother she'd learned one harsh lesson tears win no sympathy. They only show weakness, making

holding her grandmother, it felt like she'd gotten back something precious she