You don’t need to justify it to me,” Dane responded, his tone detached.


    Josie bit her lip, consumed by frustration.


    She felt like this whole situation had damaged her image in Dane’s heart!


    Susan, feeling that her arm wasn’t in pain anymore and not wanting to get involved in their matters, was about to leave when Dane stopped her.


    “Your arm is burned; you should apply some ointment.


    ”


    Before Susan could object, Dane guided her to the living room, fetched a first aid kit, and began treating her wound.novelbin


    Susan sat quietly, watching Dane care for her, almost as if she were in a surreal moment.


    Was this special treatment because of her friendship with Madisyn?


    She tried to overlook Josie’s ring look of envy…


    Once the ointment was applied, Susan swiftly made her way upstairs.


    Dane observed her retreating figure, baffled.


    Was he that intimidating?


    “Dane, let me make you some coffee again,” Josie said, looking pitiful.


    Dane gave her a cold look.


    “No, thanks.


    I won’t drink your coffee, and I don’t appreciate yourpany.


    I hope you understand your position.


    ”


    Josie’s face fell.


    “Dane…”


    “Don’t stick with me.


    It gives the wrong impression,” Dane stated before walking away.


    Josie was left shivering, feeling colder than ever.


    Previously, although Dane was not fond of her, he had never been so harsh.


    But now…


    Was it because she had revealed her true nature, exhausting Dane’s patience?


    Or perhaps…


    With growing irritation, Josie headed back to Kristine’s room, her spirits low.


    Kristine asked what was wrong.


    “It’s just so odd, Kristine,” Josieined.


    “Dane used to just ignore me, but today he was outright rude.


    He was so nice to that simple friend of your sister, yet so harsh with me! Do you think it’s because his real sister is here now, and he doesn’t care about you anymore?” Josie spected.


    Kristine’s face shifted subtly, and Josie realized she might have misspoken, quickly adding, “Of course not.


    Those country women are so sly, they make men lose their heads!”


    Kristine managed a weak smile.


    “Perhaps Dane just pities them…”


    Yet her eyes briefly hardened.