Chapter 286

Gerard gave Vespera the full, unfiltered version of that bloody high-society saga. Naturally, he couldn't resist adding some dramatic flair, throwing in details no one could know, plus a handful of invented inner monologues just to amp up the drama. When he got to the part where Theodore's first wife, Mirabelle Moody—heavily pregnant and out with her son—was in a fatal crash, Vespera instinctively covered her mouth in shock. Her chest tightened, and a dull ache settled in her heart. "Vespera, are you crying? You women are so emotional," Gerard teased, handing her a tissue. "I'm usually not like this," she said, embarrassed, dabbing her eyes. She really wasn't. She wasn't the sentimental type, but this story hit her differently. Maybe it was just that tragic. Or maybe it was because earlier, Theodore had said she looked like his late wife. She rolled her eyes silently. That scumbag didn't deserve to miss anyone—least of all woman like that. He was worse than Luke. He was th