The Cherished Wife

Henry was out of patience with Layla's drama. "Jordan, she's your wife now, which makes her part of the Langford family. You know what to do." He gave Jordan a look of regret.

If only Tania had chosen Jordan back then, he would have been a decent choice. Too bad he and Anna were not meant to be.

"Got it!" Jordan agreed. "I won't bother you anymore." He took Layla's hand firmly. "Come on, we're going home!"

"I won't go, Dad. Please listen to me. I've always been your daughter! You... Tania left us three years ago and never treated us like her real parents. She didn't even come home when her mom was dying..."

"Stop! Just stop. I'm done listening to you trash-talk Anna. I've done more than enough for you," Henry declared. Without his help back in the day, Layla would never have had a shot at marrying Jordan considering her background. Sure, the Langfords were not the top dogs in Brookville, but they were a respected literary family, and Jordan was a catch.

even though Henry was done playing games.

him a death glare. "You think you're so great? Why can't you put in a good word with my dad for me?

fuming and stamping her foot, muttering, "Tania? Yeah,

you just

at the voice that came from nowhere. She stumbled, caught herself against the wall, and turned to look at Sean with a look of sheer panic. "Mr. Smith, Mr. Smith..." Sean gave a sly grin, casually stroking his chin, looking as innocent as can

"Sean Smith..."

Layla pressed against the wall, desperate to run though her feet

his eyes. "Why

chill run down her spine. She knew all too well what Sean was capable of. Years ago, she had watched in horror as a