Chapter 6 Unwelcome
Shadow
When Corrine fell for Bruce, a man from the wrong side of the tracks, the prestigious Ford family–Corrine’s mother’s family–vehemently opposed their relationship. Yet Corrine, with her characteristic stubbornness, remained unmoved by their objections. Driven by what she believed to be true love, she severed ties with the Ford family, concealed her identity as Carl Ford’s granddaughter, and immersed herself in the complicated world of the Ashton family.
Carl’s fury erupted upon discovering her actions. In a calculated move to reclaim his granddaughter, he immediately froze her bank accounts, cutting off her financial lifeline.
The stalemate persisted for three long years.
Throughout this period, the Ford family waited patiently, harboring hope that Corrine would eventually see reason. Now, the news of Bruce’s abandonment had struck them like a thunderbolt.
The very notion that someone would dare to reject Carl’s granddaughter was inconceivable.
The Ashton family’s audacity knew no bounds.
Jayden’s blood boiled with indignation. The Ashton family’s actions demanded retribution.
Corrine’s lips curved into a delicate smile as she gazed at her uncle with tranquil eyes. “Haven’t you already made arrangements on my behalf, Uncle?”
“Consider returning to the Ford family,” Jayden suggested, his expression softening. “Your grandfather isn’t getting any younger, and the company’s demands weigh heavily on him. Neither your uncle Waldo nor I harbor any interest in succession–you’re our hope.”
His eyes shimmered with affection. “Of course, should you have different aspirations, share them with me. You’ll have my complete support.”
His heartfelt words penetrated the emotional fortress Corrine had built around herself.
Memories flooded back–her angry departure from the Ford family home, her pursuit of an unworthy man, her abandonment of those who truly cherished her. Self–reproach washed over her like a bitter wave.
Fighting back the moisture gathering in her eyes, she managed a tremulous, “Thank you, Uncle.”
“You’re my only sister’s daughter. Of course I will look after you.” Jayden’s gentle hand ruffled her hair, his gaze brimming with warmth. “Take care of yourself. I’ll visit again soon.”
After Jayden’s departure, Corrine ventured outside, drawn by the inviting sunlight.
In the hospital garden, Leah stood wrapped in a knitted sweater, observing Corrine beneath a tree.
Despite the plain hospital attire, Corrine’s innate grace radiated. Her solitary figure beneath the tree drew every eye, her beauty impossible to overlook.
It wasn’t a delicate, innocent beauty but rather a bold, commanding presence that demanded attention.
“What an unexpected reunion.” A voice interrupted Corrine’s solitude. She turned, her features instantly hardening at the sight of Leah, who wore a triumphant smirk.
“Corrine, it’s been quite some time.”
A glacial atmosphere descended as Corrine’s eyes darkened. “Miss Burgess, you appear like an unwelcome
shadow.”
Undeterred, Leah continued, “I sometimes pity you, Miss Holland. How many three–year periods can one waste pining for a man’s non–existent love?”
Suddenly, tears welled in Leah’s eyes as she clutched Corrine’s arm. “Corrine, the fault lies with me. Please accept my apology…”
“Remove your hand!” Corrine recoiled in revulsion, pushing Leah away.
Though the force was minimal, Leah stumbled backward dramatically and began to fall.
As Corrine processed Leah’s theatrical display, a sharp voice pierced the air from behind. “Corrine, what do you think you’re doing?”
The moment that voice reached her ears, Corrine understood Leah’s elaborate performance.
She realized that refusing to play her part on Leah’s carefully constructed stage would be a missed opportunity.
