When Love Becomes a Cage by Nora

Chapter 50

Chapter 50



Kayla's eyes twinkled with mischief as she glanced my way, masking any hint of sorrow beneath a veil of smug satisfaction.

I nearly applauded her for her talent. She could have made a living on Broadway, yet she chose to play the other woman. What a waste of potential.

In no time, a crowd had gathered around us, exchanging glances that were all too eager to witness the unfolding drama.

"Ms. Osborne, you let go of the bags. Melanie didn't even have a chance to catch them," Vinson stepped before me, his gaze darkening as he faced Kayla.

Kayla's lips twitched into a barely contained smile as if she had been waiting for him to speak up.

Covering her mouth in a faux shock, Kayla mused, "Oh, you're Melanie's... Of course, you'd take her side."

Her words were intentionally vague, drawing curious looks from the crowd toward us.

Despite our efforts to clear the air about our rumored affair, skepticism lingered.

Clyde handed Kayla a jewelry box with a huff. "Your testimony doesn't count. How do we know you two aren't conspiring against Kayla?" "Partners in crime!" I couldn't help but stare at Clyde as if he had lost his mind, especially since he seemed to have forgotten Merritt's explicit instructions for today. Hadn't it been for my connection to the Patterson family, I wouldn't have bothered coming to this anniversary party.

for such expensive jewelry. It was an accident. Even though it was a gift from Clyde, I

keep it and

Melanie?" Vinson's disgust was palpable, his voice

it.

I knew proving my innocence would be challenging. The only person who could vouch for me was

"We can't let this go. What about

Why are you so upset?" Thinking

the topic of marital assets came up, Kayla's chest

day it is?" Leaning on his cane, Merritt made his way

Merritt for the first time, Kayla forced a smile, attempting to play nice. "Mr. Merritt, I was

here?" Lucia's sharp voice cut through, sending Kayla stumbling. Ever graceful, Evelyn supported Merritt. "Young lady, don't ever

they were worried about the family fortune if a

Clyde. "Aren't you supposed to be entertaining

Merritt's command, the crowd dispersed back to the

the dutiful Mrs. Patterson. Thankfully,

when we returned to the Patterson Mansion. "Clyde,

kneeling with a straight

for Melanie. Why was it on that little tramp? And this dress, does she even deserve it?

at the anniversary, giving the dress to that woman instead? Think about

remained silent, only murmuring an apology

my way. I realized then something