Chapter 78
Chapter 78:
Regaining her poise, she pivoted slowly, her tone lightly mocking. “Have you been binge-watching films, or perhaps drinking too much? You’re starting to sound ridiculous p>
She placed her palm against his forehead, then against her own. “No fever. That’s good news p>
Brayden’s expression darkened. He leaned forward abruptly, closing the gap between them. “Don’t think saving my life means I’ll always take your side p>
“I wouldn’t dream of it. I know we’re cut from the same cloth.” With that, Gracie turned away. “I’m heading to join the researchers. If this isn’t your scene, feel free to find the exit p>
She strode toward Jeffrey and the others, the click of her heels slicing through the murmurs around them.
For now, her path and Brayden’s aligned—but alliances built on shared interests were fragile things. Tomorrow might make them adversaries.
Moments after her departure, Theo appeared. “Brayden, you look upset. Did something happen with Gracie p>
“Mind your own affairs,” Brayden replied curtly. “If you’ve got spare time, use it to keep watch over your wife p>
He leaned closer, his tone hardening. “Stay within your boundaries, Theo. As long as you don’t cross the line, I’ll let the past rest p>
Theo blinked in confusion. “What are you implying? Do you think I’m scheming for the inheritance p>
Lowering his gaze, his voice turned faint. “I’ve never fought you for anything. To ease Grandpa’s mind, I even majored in science instead of business. Research is all I care about. Must I die before you finally believe that p>
Brayden’s sternness softened. He patted Theo’s shoulder gently. “You’re my brother. I won’t deny you what’s rightfully yours, and neither will our family p>
He meant every word, though the promise would remain unspoken until the right time came.
“Brayden, you’re joking,” Theo said with a forced smile. “I’m satisfied with my dividends. I’ve contributed little, after all p>
But his downcast eyes hid a glint of bitterness sharp enough to cut glass.
Brayden regarded him with quiet complexity. “Grandpa’s shares are still untouched. Anything could happen. At the annual gala, we might see… changes p>
Theo’s head jerked up, shock flickering across his face. “What are you suggesting p>
“I’ll support you, as long as you don’t stray,” Brayden said evenly.
Across the room, Gracie observed them, her brow creasing slightly.
“What has your attention?” Jeffrey’s voice carried a chill as he followed her gaze. “Theo’s quite the actor. If you hadn’t warned me, I might’ve believed his performance. The real question is whether your husband can harden his heart this time p>
“Family bonds are stubborn things,” Gracie answered calmly. “Even the faintest hope can convince someone to forgive. Brayden isn’t ready to let go, not yet p>
Her assured tone drew curiosity from Jeffrey. “You speak like someone who’s lived many lives. How do you know families so well p>
“I’m only speaking generally.” Gracie smiled faintly, though her gaze lingered on Brayden with a trace of sorrow.
In her mind’s eye, she saw a younger version of herself, devastated when her mother died, only to see Alan bring Jane and Ellie into their home before the week was over. Back then, shattered by grief, she’d clung to the illusion that Alan had once truly loved her and her mother. It wasn’t until her wretched death in that previous life that she understood: blood ties could be emptier than strangers’ kindness.
Her eyes darkened as she watched Brayden. “Brayden,” she whispered to herself, “how long until you learn to be merciless? I can’t wait forever p>