Chapter 73

Jasper found Charlotte outside a club, leaning against a utility pole as she vomited, her body bent at a sharp angle. When he approached her, she straightened up, wiping the corners of her mouth with a tissue, tears welling in her eyes from the physical strain. "Why are you drinking with them?" Jasper demanded, frustration edging his voice. "Didn't you promise me you'd cut ties with these people?" He reached out to grab her arm, but Charlotte pulled away. "They're my father's old friends, who he left for me to rely on..." Jasper's patience snapped. "Friends? These people are anything but clean! Hanging around them will only drag you into their mess." Charlotte laughed bitterly. "I wanted to cut ties, but I realized that without them, I'm nothing. Jasper, your world is ruthless. I have to be stronger than I am now." Jasper's expression darkened. "I told you you don't have to do this." "I called you here to discuss something. I want to postpone the wedding. I can't marry into th