When Left
CHAPTER 152

Chapter 152: Still Thinking About Him

No one had expected the usually gentle Claire to address Christopher with such pointed words right from the start.

It took all my effort to stifle a laugh. But honestly, I was probably the only one who could replace humor in this situation.

The atmosphere became charged with an uneasy tension. The real awkwardness stemmed not from what was said, but from my presence–the ex–wife- in this room.

1 lowered my head slightly, focusing on the window, trying to minimize my presence. The snow outside, still unmelted, shane so brightly it hurt my

1 felt a gaze fixed on me and then heard Christopher’s slow, deep voice. “Yes, we just

got divorced.

Claire glanced shifted to Kimberly, her expression turning colder. I also heard you had a hand in it?”

“Claire…”

Kimberly frowned, darting a subtle glare my way. She sat down next to Claire, taking her arm and shaking it slightly.

“Who told you such nonsense? Christopher’s marriage was already on the rocks long before I came into the picture… Kimberly whined.

*I’ll ask you just one question,” Claire said, her tone cold and unwavering. “On the day you announced your engagement, had they already divorced?”

Of course, they hadn’t

Kimberly knew this better than anyone.

Biting her lip and adopting an innocent expression, Kimberly replied, “It’s true they hadn’t divorced at that time, but the fact that Christopher was willing to divorce for me shows that he likes me more than…

“Shut up!” Claire thundered, her face flushing with rage. “Who raised you to be so shameless? If you dare utter a word of this nonsense outside, the Harris family will disown you!”

Kimberly stood there, stunned for a moment, before her accusatory gaze shifted to me. “Hope Royston, did you say something to Claire? Making her turn against me…”

Claire’s frown deepened. “What does this have to do with Hope? Don’t take your anger out on my guest,”

“Guest?” Kimberly, spoiled by Skylar, couldn’t hold back her temper even in front of Claire. “What kind of guest is she? Don’t you know her ex…

Her words trailed off, suddenly hesitant. That’s when Kimberly realized I hadn’t informed Claire of my relationship with Christopher, so the old lady didn’t know the full extent of our connection.

Claire, still fuming, leveled a stern gaze at Kimberly. Has your mother spoiled you so

that

can’t even finish a sentence?”

“…” Kimberly stammered, retreating

ng into muttered defiance. Anyway, you and Jerry are always siding with outsiders!”

Christopher’s eyelashes lowered slightly, concealing his emotions. When he looked up, his voice was calm and measured. “Mrs. Harris, please don’t be angry with Kimberly. It was my fault for handling things poorly.”

I shot Christopher a glare, What a

a touching display of deep affection. It would have been perfect if I weren’t here.

Claires anger subsided a bit. At least you have the courage to admit it.”

Then her tone shifted, becoming resolute. “But no matter how good you are, you’re still not good enough to be a grandson–in–law of the Harris family!”

Her words were cutting and unyielding.

Indeed, in jacquar, no one dared to challenge Christopher, but here in Maple Valley, the three major families held sway. The Valence family, propped up solely by Christopher, lacked the clout of old. With the scandal involving Evelyn and Charlie, Christopher had to be tread carefully, as many were waiting to exploit any vulnerability

1/3

Chapter 152. Still Thinking About Him

Claire’s harsh criticism was a bitter pill Christopher had to swallow.

Unexpectedly, he showed no traces of embarrassment. His expression remained unreadable as he responded with quiet r enough or not, Ill prove it to you.”

Kimberly’s eyes lit up with joy. “Claire, did you hear that? Isn’t that enough for you?”

with poised elegance. For you, it’s enough. No need to prove anything. As long as you and your mother are satisfied.”

The first sentence carried a hint of disapproval, but then she immediately agreed.

Kimberly was confused. “What do you mean…

resolve, “Whether I’m good

Claire directed her gaze at Kimberly. “If he were to be Bellas husband, he would fall short! But for you, he’s more than enough.”

Her tone was serene, devoid of any disdain. Yet it felt like a tremendous slap in the face.

Kimberly erupted, “You always think I’m not as good as her! How can you be such a grandmother!*

Her cheeks reddened with humiliation in front of Christopher, and she stormed out, retreating to her own courtyard. In her anger, she even forgot about Christopher.

Christopher’s green

‘s green eyes flicked toward me briefly, his gaze dark and restrained, but he remained silent before Claire.

Claire gently parted my hand. “Hope, why don’t you go have some breakfast first? The dining room is just out this door to the right. If you can’t replace it, ask one of the servants.”

I nodded. “Okay.”

It was clear she wanted to discuss something in private with Christopher.

Ignoring Christopher’s lingering gaze, I rose and walked out. As I passed by the window, their conversation drifted to my ears.

“Now that we’re alone, Mr. Valence, please be honest. Why do you want to marry Kimberly? What do you hope to gain from us?”

I instinctively stopped.

I thought it would be about mutual benefits,

at then I heard Christopher’s calm voice. “Mrs. Harris, you’re joking. It’s naturally because of love.”

But

Because of love.

I looked down. After more than three years of marriage, Christopher had never shown any affection towards me. How could he have developed feelings for Kimberly after knowing her for such a short time?

Claire sighed,

“You’re nothing like your g

grandfather.”

Christopher’s curiosity was piqued. “You knew my grandfather?”

Claire nodded. “Now, can you be honest with me?”

Christopher was silent for a long moment, his voice finally emerging tinged with bitterness. “I have someone I want to

A hand suddenly patted my shoulder.

I jumped and turned to ser Jerry raising an eyebrow. “Hope Royston, do you have a habit of eavesdropping?”

I glared at Jerry, lowering my voice. “Do you have a surveillance device on me?”

protect….

What kind of curse was this? Whether I was peeking or eavesdropping, Jerry was always bound to show up. Quicker than a cop catching a thief.

Terry nodded towards the room, a smirk on his lips. “You’ve got divorced, but you’re still thinking about him?

I was just curious. Curious about what made me lose so badly.

“You two really are a pair of star–crossed lovers.”