Chapter 326
Chapter 326:
“Just… why?” Jessie’s eyes blazed with fury, her whole body shaking as she spat the words. “What makes Brayden so damn special? You’re fully aware of the risks, but you’re still choosing to stand with him p>
Her hands balled into tight fists at her sides. “Delia is relentless. She’s made it her mission to reclaim him. How can you possibly be so confident he won’t give in? Their history goes back to childhood—that kind of bond isn’t easily broken. Do you honestly believe you can ever truly compare p>
Gracie moved closer, her resolve hardening her features. “If Delia’s devotion was as absolute as you claim, then where was she when he needed her most? After the accident in my last life—after he was scarred and disabled—she never came back. I never even knew she existed p>
Her gaze was unwavering. “Our destinies are intertwined now, Jessie. You know this connection can’t be severed. And do you think running from him would make me safe from Theo? Without Brayden’s protection and resources, we are utterly powerless. Our priority must be uncovering how Theo ruined your family p>
A sheen of unshed tears glistened in Jessie’s eyes as she took an unsteady breath. “I… I need a moment,” she whispered, her voice thick. “Wait for me p>
She turned abruptly and retreated toward the building, not once glancing back.
Gracie released a soft, weary sigh and remained where she was.
Jessie needed space. Only after processing this emotional storm could they effectively move forward with their strategy.
Alone in the restroom, Jessie gripped the edges of the cold porcelain sink, staring at the distressed reflection staring back—the flushed face, the red-rimmed eyes. A silent vow solidified within her. I couldn’t save you before, Gracie. In this second chance, I will not fail you again, no matter the cost.
Steeling herself with a deep inhalation, she pushed open the door and stepped out—only to collide firmly with someone’s chest.
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“Jessie? Is it really you?” The voice, floating down from above her, was achingly familiar, tinged with shocked elation. It was Bernie Cooper.
Her gaze traveled upward, meeting a face forever imprinted in her memory. “Bernie p>
His name escaped her, rough and husky, betraying the sudden, undeniable rush of joy she felt.
Gracie settled into a lounge chair near the crackling bonfire, the night’s chill held at bay by the circle of warmth.
The peaceful moment was broken by approaching footsteps.
She lifted her head slowly, and all traces of ease vanished from her expression as Theo settled into the seat beside her. His tone was deceptively light. “Delia Campbell is accustomed to getting anything she desires. She shares a lifelong history with Brayden and his inner circle—the only woman ever allowed into that fold. Are you certain you’re prepared for that kind of rivalry p>
“Oh? Have you come to plant doubts as well?” Gracie accepted a blanket from a passing server, her voice cool. “So what if they have history? I am his legal wife. Our union is formalized and acknowledged by both our families p>
“Legal marriages end in divorce every day. Your position is more precarious than you admit,” Theo countered, a sly smile touching his lips. “Aren’t you even curious about why Delia made a sudden exit overseas three years ago? Her tactics are in a completely different league from Lia’s p>
Gracie couldn’t argue that point.
Lia, powerless, had relied on playing the wounded ingénue to elicit Brayden’s pity. Delia, however, operated from a position of immense strength. With the weight of the Campbell name behind her, she had little to fear. If she truly meant harm, her approach would be far more calculated and severe.
“I find it hard to believe the Delia you describe is the same accomplished woman known internationally for her business acumen,” Gracie stated flatly. “Love is a side dish in life, Theo, not the main course. A woman of her caliber isn’t likely to lose all rationality over a man p>
Theo began to applaud softly, a look of genuine appreciation deepening in his eyes. “You continue to impress me. Your clarity and perception surpass any woman I’ve ever known. How I wish I’d chosen you as my bride back then p>