Regretting The Wife He Threw Away

"Just look at your attitude!" Melody sneered, her voice dripping with self- righteousness. "I warned you all ages ago—not to get too close to Briony, that jinx! But did anyone listen? Now look what's happened—your only daughter, And it's all her fault!"

gone.

Briony froze, blindsided by the venom in Melody's words.

"You're talking nonsense!" James exploded, stepping protectively in front of Briony. Towering over Melody at six-foot-two, he radiated an intimidating presence.

Melody, barely five foot two and clutching a designer handbag, instinctively raised it between them as she shrank back a step.

"W-Who are you? No manners at all! Anyone can see you're not from a decent family!"

James let out a short, incredulous laugh, his fists clenching. "You got that right. I'm not from a 'decent' family-which means I don't mind using my fists, especially when it comes to nasty old women who spew poison every time they open their mouths."

Melody stared at his raised fist, swallowing hard. "Y-You know it's illegal to hit someone, right?"

He just grinned, eyes cold. "Trust me, if I broke every bone in your body, I'd sleep just fine."

James stepped closer, his voice a roar. "Now get out of here!"

Terrified, Melody grabbed her daughter and beat a hasty retreat.

But before leaving, she turned and shouted, her voice shrill and spiteful, "When Briony was born, the priest said she was cursed! Anyone close to her ends up dead! Take my advice-stay away from her while you still can!"

"You miserable old witch!" James bellowed, chasing after her.

Startled, Melody's heel twisted beneath her, and she stumbled, nearly spraining her ankle.

spectacle, quickly helped her

only to wound. Yet, for Scarlett-already devastated-they struck a

the blankets. Her voice, hoarse and exhausted from crying, came muffled. "Bryn, just... go

hesitated, lips pressed tight, staring at her

her voice gentle. "Mrs. Joyner, I'll

looked to

"She's not herself right now-don't let it get

"You too, Mr. Joyner.

"And take care of yourself as

and left the hospital

the elevator before closing the door behind

back, Briony

several times, noticing the distant look in her eyes

go back to the studio, or

studio." Briony's lashes fluttered. "It's closer to the police station. If there's any news about

James sighed. "Alright."

reached the studio, Briony unfastened her seatbelt

James frowned. "What's wrong?"

to him, her beautiful eyes shining with unshed tears.

James was taken aback.

grandfather died of cancer. Then my mom. And now Star..."

by the shoulders, looking her dead

escape. Don't blame yourself for things you can't control. That old hag was just trying to kick you while you're down. She's jealous of you! Don't let her get in

at him,