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.

threatening gaze. "As long as you agree to

flared on Adeline's face. She shouted, "Are you even human? That's your son! And you're using him

shrugged, looking at her with a smirk and that shameless air he always wore. "My hands are tied. You're the one who forced me into

cornered now, certain

no room to negotiate, Adeline stormed out, slamming

watched her go, the corner of his mouth curling into a smug smile. He was sure Adeline would

Bagnold followed Lyman Etheridge

she spotted her grandmother's car at the curb, she

grandmother called, her voice trembling

weighed on

her tight, just like

and warm. "There, there,

threatening to spill over. Her face was swollen from holding back the emotion, and

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

she