"So Mary Winfield's ready to admit defeat. I'll start preparing the wedding then. Can't wait to make you my bride."
His voice spread an ache through my chest.
I'd run from him all those years ago to prove I didn't need his protection, that I could build a good life on my own.
I never imagined these ten years would leave me with nothing but wreckage.
Joel emerged from the bedroom, frowning.
"Where are you going tomorrow? I'll have someone drive you."
I hung up quickly, forcing a smile.
"Just shopping with a friend. She's already arranged a driver."
Joel studied me, his gaze lingering long enough to make my heart race.
Finally, he handed me a servant's uniform.
"Mom's stomach has been acting up again. Don't let her see you—go dressed as a maid and cook her something medicinal."
He paused, glancing at me like he was granting a favor.
"If there's a chance, I'll let you see our son."
I took the clothes from his hands.
Old Mrs. Abbott's health had always been fragile. To win her over, to make her accept me as Joel's wife, I'd studied herbal medicine just to help nurse her back to health.
The first time I showed up with a pot of nourishing soup, she threw the scalding broth at my arm.