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.

jewelry. It was an accident. Even though it was a gift from Clyde, I had

intend to keep it and planned to shift

do you trust this woman over Melanie?" Vinson's disgust was palpable,

tugged at his sleeve. "Forget it.

everyone's view, I knew proving my innocence would be

Kayla persisted, "We can't let this

to me. I offered her a smile, "Aren't these considered marital assets? Why are you so upset?" Thinking about involving the police crossed my mind, but I decided against it, considering it might only

came up, Kayla's

all this commotion? Don't you know what day it is?" Leaning on his cane, Merritt

Kayla forced a smile, attempting to play nice.

make a scene here?" Lucia's sharp voice cut through, sending Kayla stumbling. Ever graceful, Evelyn supported Merritt. "Young lady, don't ever go around fussing over nothing. The Patterson family dislikes fussbudgets. The rightful Mrs. Patterson is right here.

Perhaps they were worried about the family fortune if a younger, healthier wife were to

you supposed to be entertaining

crowd dispersed back to the

the dutiful Mrs. Patterson. Thankfully, the anniversary celebration concluded

palpable when we returned

kneeling with

"You said this jade was for Melanie. Why was it on that little tramp?

you with Melanie at the anniversary, giving the dress

silent, only

my way. I realized then something