Chapter 21

Everyone in the room was stunned by Derek's announcement. He had always kept his distance from the Reyes family, primarily due to issues surrounding his mother. He spent years abroad, harboring resentment toward Ryan and wanting nothing to do with the family. People knew Derek resented Ryan and held little affection for the Reyes clan. His illegitimate birth didn't help matters. They feared he might return to claim a share of the family fortune and generally kept him at arm's length. Therefore, his sudden return and declaration to take charge of family affairs was a shock.

Davin looked as if he'd swallowed a lemon. "Take over? Who do you think you are? You have no say in Reyes matters."

"It's not your decision," Derek retorted. "Starting today, I'm moving in with the family."

He turned to Ryan. "What do you think, Father?"

I always believed Davin viewed Derek as a blemish on his reputation, disliking his illegitimate son. But when Derek called him "Father," I noticed Davin's eyes glisten with unshed tears. That wasn't the reaction of a man who didn't care about his son.

"Prepare a room for Derek," Ryan commanded, waving his hand. The housekeeper scurried off, clearly worried Derek might change his mind. Davin remained unhappy. "Father, this isn't right…"

"Shut your mouth! He's your brother. What's wrong with that? He's succeeded independently, and look at the mess you've made."

Mentioning Chase angered Ryan further. "And speaking of messes, I've seen those nasty online rumors about Amanda being a fraud. Are you just going to let people talk about your wife like that?"

"Grandpa, Amanda ran off to Cloudville without a word. She needs to learn not to act so recklessly."

"You have the nerve to call her reckless! Would she have gone there if you hadn't bailed on your wedding? Have you forgotten the time she begged her father to save us financially? How can you be so ungrateful?"

He lashed out again. "You ungrateful brat, I ought to beat some sense into you."

"Dad, if you hurt him too badly, how's he supposed to bring Amanda back from Cloudville?" Davin pleaded. "And Amanda cares about him. Seeing him hurt would break her heart."

Finally, Ryan threw down the metaphorical whip. "You fool, get my granddaughter-in-law back here."

He then left with Derek, ignoring Chase.

"You've done well abroad. If you're thinking about coming back, that's good," Ryan said to Derek.

Derek responded coolly, "Hmm."

Several people remained in the living room. Patricia was checking Nicole for injuries. Chase sat with his head down, clearly distraught.

Davin helped him up, wincing at his bleeding back. "My father was too harsh. Get the family doctor here, quickly."

"Right away."

Once Chase's wounds were treated, he lay on the bed while I paced, anxious. It felt like they were out to get me, determined to leave me without a resting place. Perhaps that's why I couldn't find peace. I wished someone would find my body so I could finally rest.

But Chase, when will you realize I'm already gone?

Davin continued lecturing Chase. "Amanda's a good woman, and she's been nothing but loyal to you. Forget about the past. You're married now. Whatever feelings you have for Nicole, keep them in check and focus on Amanda…"

Chapter 22