Chapter 333
Chapter 328-2
The directness is a trap. “She’s a bit busy today and can’t come over for now,” I hedge, the lie tasting like ash.
He sees right through me, he always does. He eyes me and extends his hand, palm up. “Give me the phone. I’ll call her.”
Grandpa… The helplessness in my voice is genuine now. My phone, long blocked by Gemma, is a useless brick in this
conversation. I can’t call her.
Do you really think I’m unaware of your divorce with Gemma?
The question lands with the force of a physical blow. A flicker of pure, unadulterated surprise crosses my face before I can school my features. He knows. How long has he known?
Seeing no denial from me, his fury erupts. He raises his cane, and before I can react, it comes down hard on my back. The pain is sharp, searing, a bright line of fire across my shoulders.
You want to infuriate me to death, don’t you? he roars. “I haven’t visited Oakhaven to see Gemma for just a few weeks, and you’ve divorced her!”
The pain is nothing. The accusation is everything. “Grandpa, it was her decision to divorce.” The defense is weak, and I know it.
She wants a divorce, and you just let her go? Are you a fool? Another thump of the cane for emphasis. “Gemma’s mother passed away not even seven days ago, but you’re divorsing her:36 Do you have any conscience left?”