Her quick denial eased Collin s expression, and he relented, Good to know you re not completely clueless.

But how did you find out about Felix s affairs? Linsey probed further. Collin sidestepped the truth, coolly fabricating, You spilled it all last night when you were drunk.

Linsey hesitated, hazy snippets of her ranting about Felix in his presence flickering in her mind. Accepting his explanation, she pressed on curiously, So why did you go after Felix s company?

Isn t it only fair that I defend my wife s honor? Collin replied with a casual shrug.

Linsey was stunned once more, her suspicions now confirmed. In that instant, her heart pounded like a war drum, a whirlwind of unease and uncertainty swirling within her.

A playful eyebrow arched as Collin glanced up, catching sight of her flushed face. Linsey, your face is really red, he teased.

Huh? Reality crashed back into Linsey as she snapped to attention, frantically searching for an excuse. I just suddenly feel really hot.

Her hands lifted in exaggerated fanning motions as she spoke, turning to Roland with forced casualness. Could you open a window for me?

Yes, Mrs. Riley. Taking her word without question, Roland promptly moved to open a window.

The poor acting didn t fool Collin for a second, though he chose not to expose her clumsy performance. A cold chuckle escaped him instead, sparing her the embarrassment.

Her reaction told him everything. She was touched by his retaliation against Felix. Warmth spread through his chest at the realization. His lips curved slightly upward, and his mood lifted as a subtle smile flickered in his eyes.

Breakfast finished, and the morning routine began.

Linsey scrubbed plates in the kitchen. Roland, fresh from tidying the dining area, froze at the unexpected sight. Alarm flashed across his features as he hurried over. Mrs. Riley, please rest. I can take care of this, he said urgently.

A gentle shake of her head accompanied Linsey s smile. It s fine. I m just trying to keep busy. Updates are released by Find Novel.net

Trapped in the villa without Collin s permission to leave, she faced endless boring hours ahead. The thought of being cooped up all day made her feel like she might go stir-crazy without something to occupy her hands.

Her insistence was clear, so Roland didn t argue further and simply joined her efforts.

Silence settled awkwardly between them in the kitchen, prompting Linsey to break the quiet with casual conversation.

Eager responses from Roland soon had them chatting amiably.

Naturally, their conversation drifted toward Collin.

A heavy sigh escaped Roland, his expression turning somber. Confusion flickered across Linsey s face as she asked softly, What s wrong, Roland?

Mrs. Riley, you might not know, Roland sighed again, his voice heavy with sympathy. Despite his bad temper, Mr. Riley is actually quite pitiful.

Pitiful? Confusion flickered in Linsey s eyes as she blinked. Is it because of the car accident that left his legs disabled?

A dismissive wave of Roland s hand followed. That s not all.

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