Can’t Win Me Back

Betty’s breath hitched. The sight of Jasper was like a predator spotting its prey, sending a primal jolt of fear through her. She longed to disappear, to vanish into some dark, forgotten corner.

Javier shot Jasper a cold glance before rising and approaching them. “Dad, why didn’t you tell me that you were coming? I could have welcomed you properly.”

“I’m not a guest here; I’m returning to my own home. I don’t need a grand welcome,” Newton replied sarcastically, his tone laced with disdain for Javier.

Their strained relationship was palpable.

Javier’s expression darkened at his father’s sharp retort. It was a clear reminder that Seaview Manor belonged to Newton, not him—just because he lived there, it didn’t mean that he owned the place.

“Grandpa, I heard that Lauren has been recuperating at your place. How is she?

Is she feeling better?” Betty hurried over and stood behind Javier. She immediately made herself look like she was showing concern for her sister.

is doing much better. She’s been eating well at my

Jasper with a hint of suspicion. “Jasper,

adjust the wool blanket covering Newton’s legs, his gaze piercing

to find the one who conspired with the Harpers, the one who leaked Lauren’s diagnosis and attacked the Becketts from the shadows?

fixed his gaze on Betty, whose face

sweat formed on her forehead. She began to retreat slowly, almost

that information! Don’t scapegoat me just because you can’t find anyone else

and Javier stared at

widened his eyes, his grip tightening

you saying that Betty conspired with the

Jasper sternly. “Jasper, this isn’t a small matter! Lauren is your sister, but so is Betty. Even if you have grievances with her because of Alyssa, you can’t throw baseless accusations. You

seized the opportunity to deflect blame. “Exactly! You’re just trying to pin this on me to appease