“Okay,” Brayden agreed with a nod.


    Once inside the car, Bryson grabbed the cigarette box from the passenger seat, Lighting one and holding it thoughtfully between his fingers, his gaze fixed on the passing scenery outside the window.


    As Brayden started the engine and nced back at the contemtive Bryson, he proposed, “I know you don’t want her to go.


    What if I handle Brodie and you go abroad with Hannah?”


    Bryson’s gaze remained fixed on the window, his voice steady yet heavy with concern.


    “Just because I’m worried about her doesn’t mean I’m any less concerned about you.


    I won’t put you in jeopardy over my issues.


    I will resolve this before I even consider leaving,” he affirmed.


    “That’s my man,” Brayden responded half-jokingly, a slight smirk crossing his face.


    “If you wrap this up well, maybe I’ll join you abroad for a break.


    Bryson managed a small smile.


    “Don’t bother-stay here and look after your wife.


    ”


    From the yard, Hannah watched as Bryson and Brayden drove away.


    Her lips were pursed, her expression tinged with a subtle sadness, unable to feel at ease despite the ns being made for her safety.


    “Hannah, you’ve been at the door for quite some time.


    Why note in?” Grace’s voice pulled Hannah from her thoughts.


    “I’m okay,” Hannah assured, offering Grace a gentle smile.


    “Let’s hold off on school for a few days, just until your brother sorts everything out.


    Then he can take you to school.


    ”


    Grace’s expression turned worried as she clutched Hannah’s hand, seekingfort.


    “Hannah, when will all this be over? Grandpa’s health has been improving a lottely, but he seems so sad when we sit in the garden.


    ”


    Hannah understood the likely cause of Franco’s distress.


    Despite Bryson’s promising presence within the Mitchell family, he wasn’t a direct descendant, whichplicated family dynamics.


    Franco’s disappointment with the internal strife and recent events was palpable.


    But family ties were strong, and they should support Franco.


    “Make sure he isn’t left alone too much.


    It’ll help him.


    ” Grace nodded earnestly.


    “Don’t worry, Hannah.


    Grandma and Dotson have been keeping himpany.


    He’d be so happy to know you’re here.


    ”


    Patting Grace’s head, Hannah gazed up at the darkening sky, her thoughts heavy.


    “I hope this ends soon,” she whispered to herself.


    Meanwhile, the night brought more unrest at the Glyn family’s residence.


    Ryleigh was outside, pounding on the gate desperately.


    “I need to see Melina! Let me in! Open the door!”


    Her continued mor eventually drew a servant to the gate.


    “This is a private area.


    If you don’t stop, we’ll have to call the police!”


    In a panic, Ryleigh seized the servant’s arm.


    “Please, I have to see Miss Glyn right now!”Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    The servant, taken aback, retorted sharply, “Who do you think you are, demanding to see her like this?”


    “I was herest time! I’m a friend of Miss Glyn! Step aside, I need to speak with her!”


    Ryleigh raised her hand to push past the servant, her frustration evident.


    “Wait!” The servant blocked her path, skepticism coloring his tone.


    “Why haven’t I heard of a friend like you before?” He stood firm, preventing her from entering.


    “Moreover, Miss Glyn just left for abroad today.


    She can’t meet with you.


    ”


    “What? Damn it!” Ryleigh’s frustration boiled over, her ns thwarted.


    “She went abroad? When? Why wasn’t I informed?”


    “How would I know?” The servant shrugged, growing impatient with the confrontation.


    “All I can tell you is that Miss Glyn has already left the country.


    Please, you need to leave now, or I will have to call security.


    ”


    “No, I must see Melina, or I won’t leave!” Ryleigh’s resolve hardened.