Return, My Love: Wooing the Neglected Ex-Wife

Chapter 623:

Callan nodded with determination. “I’m off to find out where Wade’s people have taken the child.”

“Alright then.”

Once the room cleared, Adrian turned his attention to Joelle, who was visibly distressed, cradling her head and slumped on the couch. Her emotions were turbulent now that they were alone.

“Joelle, try to relax.”

“I’m aware,” she replied, her voice tinged with resolve. “I won’t harm myself again.”

Her breathing was labored as images of Ryland’s possible torment haunted her thoughts. Overwhelmed, she reached for her antidepressants, seeking some semblance of peace.

Michael, after escorting Aurora and Leah out, joined them with troubling news. “Adrian, Wade is refusing to hand over Ryland because Chris needs a stable blood supply due to his anemia. If we find an alternative to Ryland, Wade might relent.”

The grim reality of their situation settled in. Moral reservations were a luxury they could no longer afford. In this harsh world, it was survival of the fittest.

A heavy silence fell before Adrian spoke, his voice low. “How are we supposed to find someone willing to be a long-term donor for Chris at such short notice?”

“I know someone.” Joelle’s voice was faint as she clutched at her chest, struggling with each word. “Not long ago, Belle came to me.”

“Belle?” Michael raised his eyebrows, his tone incredulous. “You mean Rafael’s mother?”

Adrian’s expression darkened as he remembered Belle’s cruel treatment of Joelle. “What did she want with you?”

Joelle’s voice softened, a gentle reassurance in her words. “Don’t worry; she came to make amends.”

Following Joelle’s harrowing suicide attempt, a widespread online movement to extend apologies to her had taken root, amassing hundreds of thousands of comments. Belle found her while Joelle was overseeing the new hires at her studio. She had approached Joelle, apologizing profusely, and lamented that Rafael never returned home.

She had also come to a realization about Liza’s true character, recognizing that many of their past problems stemmed from her interference.

With the family fortune dwindling and after the loss of her child, Liza no longer tried to charm Belle, but instead frequently bemoaned their financial woes. She had even compelled Belle to take up work as a maid, despite her advanced years.

Had Belle not approached her, Joelle might never have connected the dots regarding Liza’s role in their troubles.

Michael looked concerned. “Do you think Liza would agree?”

Joelle’s eyes narrowed. “According to Belle, Liza’s desperate for money. If we offer her a steady, lucrative position, she’d likely jump at the chance.”noveldrama

“Alright, I’ll reach out to her.” Michael agreed, then strode off to make the arrangements.

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