Secret Admiration: Finding True Love After Prison

Chapter 9 Her Call

Malcolm's face darkened as he drummed his fingers on the table, the sound echoing ominously through the room.

He couldn't believe that Meryl, who had dedicated so much of her life to Dalton, would now so easily call off the engagement.

"Is this about Lydia? They've just been working together more closely lately. Is that really worth all this drama?"

Bianca quickly backed him up. "Do you really think so little of Lydia? She's always been nice to you. Why would she try to take Dalton from you?" Meryl's gaze swept over her parents and then landed on Lydia.

It was all so bitterly ironic.

Lydia didn't need to lift a finger. Her parents were always ready to speak for her.

And yet, Meryl was the one they should have been defending.

A sardonic smile played on Meryl's lips.

"I'm not joking or being petty. I'm ending things with Dalton. It's over."

Dalton, clearly frustrated, tugged at his tie. "What now, Meryl?

Chapter 9 Her Call

What's this all about?"

Meryl's laugh was hollow.

"You think I'm just throwing a tantrum?"

"Dalton, do you think that just because I love you, I'm beneath. you? Do you believe I'm not allowed to feel hurt?"

my pain, so you

ditch your fiancée to protect another

could you so casually

said to

as he realized that Meryl's outburst was a reaction to

was a direct result of

laughed, though the sound was bitter. "It was just a joke among friends. Is that all it takes

will only make things harder for Mom and Dad.

3/5

family is already a joke.

SO

you're worried about how

over, slapped Meryl hard

heaved as he glared

Meryl's vision blur and her head spin even more from

pain in her cheek was intense, but

off the engagement means anyone would. still want you?

let's not forget, your prison record will be public

made a fool of

prison, but I was framed! Just because Lydia was behind it,

She

she turned to leave, the

umbrella, but Meryl just shook her head and walked straight into

her so-called family

her through, but she felt strangely

was like she was washing away

far away, a sleek black car was parked