Every word dripped with bias, as if he'd already witnessed Janet weeping and wronged.
It had been the same in our last life.
The moment Janet cried, the whole world became her villain.
Back when Rhys and I were still together, she'd summon him at will. I'd be burning with fever; he'd be watching fireworks with her. My birthday would come; he'd be sharing street food at her favorite stall.
A bitter ache spread through my chest—not for him, but for the foolish girl I used to be, waiting and hoping for scraps.
And Joan? She'd been just as blind.
Whoever wanted to be a Gilbert bride could have at it.
The incident had taken place in a surveillance blind spot—clearly chosen with care.
By the time I arrived, Janet was thrashing in the water, crying for help. Joan was struggling nearby.
"Janet!"
Rhys sprinted to the shore and dove in without a second's hesitation, swimming straight for Janet.
"Don't be scared—I've got you!"
He didn't spare a single glance for the woman he'd just gotten engaged to.
He wrapped his arms around Janet and hauled her to shore, patting her back with exaggerated gentleness.