Second Chance: Marrying into Wealth Chapter 259

"Mr. Collins treats all his employees well. I just happen to interact with him more often," I replied smoothly, keeping my personal feelings about Christopher under wraps.

But Faye was the suspicious type and wouldn't let it go.

I was so tired of dealing with her.

Christopher seemed to notice my discomfort and said calmly, "It's getting late, Melinda. You should head home."

Out of nowhere, Faye chimed in, "Our families have known each other for ages. I haven't visited your place yet. Mind if I come by for a tour?"

In the middle of the night, this cold, eerie woman wanted to come to my house.

If Faye visited, I knew I wouldn't be able to sleep, haunted by nightmares.

They said to be careful with one's words, lest they came true.

It seemed I was living that saying.

"Mrs. Collins, I'm afraid it's not appropriate. My parents passed away not long ago, and their portraits are still in the living room. I'm worried it might be uncomfortable for you."

I deliberately used my parents to scare Faye. Even if she had ill intentions towards me, she wouldn't dare act in my home.

Besides, my parents were watching over me. Otherwise, how could their wrongful deaths be avenged? Faye might have plans, but she'd be cautious.

Sure enough, Faye covered her mouth with a fake laugh and said, "That does sound inconvenient. I'll find another time to pay my respects to your parents."

Who knew when that would be? Just listen and let it go.

I felt a bit relieved and was ready to leave.

But she spoke again, "Ms. Turner, don't go just yet. I have more to say."

I suppressed my frustration and looked at Faye, waiting for her to speak.

She glanced at Christopher and sighed, "You've grown distant from me. Like with the medicine incident, you misunderstood me."

Christopher sneered, "Really? Keep making up stories."

"How can you say that? I've explained everything to Marlowe, and she understands and forgives me."

Seeing Christopher's disbelief, Faye turned to me, "It's my fault for misjudging people, so it's normal to be misunderstood. But I've already sent the culprit to the police. There's no need to worry anymore. Ms. Turner, I know you're reasonable, so please help persuade Christopher."

I opened my mouth, but the words turned into, "Mr. Collins has his own judgment. I'm just an employee. How can I influence my boss's decisions?"

"You're quite the good employee!" Faye smiled at me, but it felt unsettling.

Christopher spoke coldly again, "You've said your piece and made your excuses. Anything else? If not, leave!"

"Christopher... Fine. When that person confesses at the police station, you'll know if I was misunderstood." Faye looked hurt, but it was like acting for a blind audience. Neither Christopher nor I were moved.

Christopher's tone was icy, "Using innocent people as scapegoats, manipulating them as tools. Isn't that your usual way? Being your friend is truly unfortunate!"

His words had a double meaning.

I recalled what Paula told me about Christopher's background and guessed that maybe Christopher's biological mother was deceived by Faye and ended up as a mistress. If so, Christopher's mother had a tragic fate.

And my guess seemed likely because Faye, usually calm and gentle, had a fleeting look of murderous intent and a momentary grimace.

"Christopher, I didn't come to argue," Faye said again.

Christopher replied, "Then why are you here? Stop wasting time. I have no patience."

"Your father hasn't seen you in a long time. He wants to meet you," Faye sighed and said.

"No time!"

Meaning he wouldn't go.

Faye looked at me, "Ms. Turner, they say Christopher's father knew your parents. It's been years, and you haven't met. This is a good opportunity. Why not come along?"

I felt overwhelmed.

Just dealing with Faye was stressful enough. If I went to the Collins' house and met Christopher's father, I'd be even more anxious.

"No..." I wanted to refuse.

But Faye had already decided, "I'll have a driver pick you up another day to meet him."

Then she left under Christopher's dangerous gaze.

I felt a cold sweat on my back. Facing Christopher, I said, "Dealing with Mrs. Faye Collins is too stressful. Mr. Collins, your family's main residence isn't in Starlight City, so I don't have to go, right?"

And I felt Faye had clearly picked the wrong person.

How could Christopher like me? I didn't even seem to have a choice.

Christopher saw I genuinely didn't want to go and said softly, "Sorry for letting my personal matters affect you."

I didn't mind, "I had so many personal issues before, and you helped me a lot."

It was only fair to acknowledge Christopher's help, which far exceeded what I did for him.

In hindsight, I regretted not subtly mentioning Marlowe to Faye. Christopher cared about Marlowe. If she wanted leverage, she should use Marlowe.

What I didn't know was that Faye was indeed meticulous. Not only did she invite me to meet Christopher's father, but she also informed Marlowe.

Unlike my reluctance, Marlowe was thrilled. She started picking out clothes to meet the Collins family as soon as she got the call.

After Faye left, Christopher and I each walked a dog to escort me home.

The distance was short, and there was no need to bring Biscuit. But Sunny, was reluctant to part with Biscuit. I didn't want to play mind games with Sunny, and Christopher didn't feel comfortable letting me walk home alone.

Even though it was a short distance, he was responsible like that.

As I reached my door, Christopher suddenly called out to me. "If you don't want to go, follow your heart. Spend time with Magnus and Cassius if you want."

"Sure!" I agreed readily. Avoiding the Collins family's scheming and oppressive atmosphere was a relief.