The Second Life of a Discarded Heiress

Chapter 236

Raymond and the Carmichael family exchanged brief glances but said nothing more. Without another word, they left the hospital room.

Once outside, the Carmichaels' faces were clouded with worry-none of them looked pleased, and tension hung in the air.

Raymond cast a glance at Manley, then suddenly spoke up. "Manley, I don't know what you're playing at, but from now on I want you to stay away from my daughter."

"And why should I?" Manley shot back, lifting his eyes defiantly.

"Because I'm Citrine's father," Raymond replied coldly, his voice edged with warning.

A humorless laugh escaped Manley as his hands balled into fists. "Raymond, I'm her Uncle Manley. I have every right to see her. You don't get to decide that for me."

There was no way he'd keep his distance from Citrine. Not now, not ever.

Raymond's eyes hardened. "If it weren't for Citrine, I would've warned you long ago. I don't care what your intentions are with my daughter, but I won't allow even a hint of danger near her."

Before Citrine came into his life, Raymond hadn't cared much about Manley. But with her there, Manley suddenly seemed like a threat he couldn't ignore.

day, what Manley had said to him years ago after the accident. The memory sent a chill down

he and Manley had fought viciously for control of the Carmichael Group. The rivalry was ruthless, and neither had planned

Manley's car accident—an accident that left him

battle for succession finally ended, if only on

left the house. Rumor had

his drive along with his mobility. But

losing the use of his legs, Manley never gave up

of influence. His efforts

orchestrated the accident, desperate

them returned to the old family estate. Manley had

he headed back to his room, Manley intercepted him

at him like a venomous snake. In a low, deliberate voice, he said, "Raymond, just wait. One day, I'll destroy what you care about

came into his life-and especially after what

mad dog, ready to lash out at anyone who came too close. Manley, for his part,

stay away from Citrine. That's never going

quiet; she didn't want visitors. That night, Raymond kept vigil outside her hospital room, calling her name every so often just to make sure she

no response.