Chapter 44
Out on a quiet trail, Sharon and her dog were taking it slow.
It was chilly, and even at high noon, the sun didn’t seem to cut through the gloom. The wind rustled the leaves in a way that gave Sharon the creeps, reminding her of how Franklin had hauled Elizabeth away, looking all menacing.
But Sharon knew she couldn’t do much to help Elizabeth, so she just kept her in her thoughts and prayers.
Elizabeth, though, had a knack for handling Franklin. If she put her mind to it, she could cool him down with just a few soft words or a peck on the cheek, and he’d back right down.
Sharon had witnessed it firsthand at her grandpa’s milestone birthday bash. Some distant aunt had made a snarky dig at Elizabeth’s past, and Franklin had joined in putting her down, too,
Elizabeth didn’t fight back. She just took the heat with her head hung low while her husband laid into her.
But once the party was over and they got back to North Building, Franklin went on a rampage as soon as the door shut, smashing the fancy ceramics the aunt had shipped all the way from the south, scattering pieces everywhere.
When Sharon had gone to see what the commotion was about, there was Elizabeth, hugging Franklin and laying gentle kisses on him, her soft hand rubbing his ear. It was like he was a rowdy kid who just needed a little TLC, and after a couple of kisses, he settled right down.
He even went along with her, helping to sweep up the mess he’d made,
All these years, Sharon just couldn’t figure out if Franklin really cared about Elizabeth or not.
If he did, why would he drag her through the mud in front of everyone!
But if he didn’t why would he let off steam in private, hungrily kissing Elizabeth and doing stuff he’d never have considered otherwise?
Sharon just shook her head, letting out a deep, heartfelt sigh.
Sharon hadn’t gone far when Vera jogged up behind her, grinning as she asked, “Sharon, why walk your dog on this path?”
North Building was just around the corner. With Franklin’s allergy to fur, Sharon didn’t usually bring her dog this way.
Today was just a fluke, and she shrugged it off. “Lawson didn’t come back last night, so I came over. But I ran into him, anyway. Such bad luck. He’s such a buzzkill. Seeing him just puts a damper on the whole day.”
“Buzzkill?” Ver echoed, her eyebrows arching.
“He just hauled Elizabeth back inside like a madman. No clue if they’re about to fight again, Sharon said, her head shaking in disapproval.
Vera recalled a similar scene, too. She said noncommittally, “Another lovers‘ quarrel?”
“Quarrel?” Sharon snorted. “Betty sold me they’re talking divorce this time. Big trouble. Serves him right.
“Divorce!” Vera’s eyes bulged
“Not joking,” Sharon said, giving a firm nod
Elizabeth had been part of the Jones family for three years, always being the picture of a good wife–sweet and obedient. Even Bradley, who hadn’t wanted her and Franklin to get married, was starting to warm up to her because she was so agreeable- have a mind of her own
Franklin wanted a wife just like that. Elizabeth fit the bill perfectly, except for her family background.
The Jones family’s staff though Elizabeth was too sensible to talk about divorce.
-so much so that she seemed like she didn’t
Vera didn’t press for more details, but Sharon, out of the blue, let out a sigh. “Elizabeth isn’t exactly outstanding. She’s kind of boring, really. All she does is buy clothes for my brother and cook for him. But she’s a great cook, and she’s patient, soo!
Sharon looked down at her dog’s fluffy head. “If they really divorce, I bet Franklin won’t find another one like her”
In the Jones family, Sharon was probably the only one who felt bad for Elizabeth.
Vera gave her a comforting pat on the back, but before she could say anything, a tall figure appeared around the corner. He had long legs, clad in suit pants, and his shiny dress shoes caught the light
His te was flashy, and a bit of a g grayish–blue shirt cuff showed just above his coat collar. It wasn’t too plain, but it wasn’t weird, either.
Chapter 44
Lawson abwory’s had a smirk on his face, as if he was in on some joke. Sharon arched an eyebrow, standing up straight as Lawson’s face came into
view.
“His voice was smooth and stretched out, kind of lazy
Sharon blinked, her hand tightening on the leash. “L–Lawson”
“I Lawson said casually, relaxed. He always greeted people politely. “Is Frank around? I need to talk to him about something”
He hadn’t forgotten he’d promised to come today to discuss Franklin’s divorce from Elizabeth,
“He’s here” Sharon moistened her lips. “Betty’s back, too. Are you looking for them!”
“Yep, got some business, Lawson said.
“Want me to show you the way?” Sharon offered.
Lawson didn’t mind. He smiled, “Sure, let’s go.”
The path was so narrow that walking side by side felt a bit squished, and the leaves on the ground made their shoulders bump, creating a weird friction
Vera had taken the Samoyed away
Sharon brushed off the fluff from her clothes, feeling awkward no matter what. She put her hands behind her back, took smaller steps, and said softly, “Lawson, what do you need with my brother?” The silence was killing her, so she tried to make small talk.
But Lawson didn’t seem bothered. He put his phone away when be heard her, glancing over casually. “Just a smill thing. I’ll take my sister home after talking to Frank.”
“Is it about the divorce?” Sharon asked, her voice shaky.
Lawson’s steps hitched a bit. He got a little defensive.
But looking at Sharon’s innocent face, he relaxed. No need to suspect her. She’s just a young girl. What trouble could she cause?” he thought
“Did Elizabeth tell you she wanted a divorce Lawson asked, his voice steady.
Sharon nodded seriously, “Yep, she told me herself”
Lawson rubbed his eye and said a bit helplessly. “She’s really bold. Oh well, it’s bound to get out. No harm if you’re in the know,”
“So it’s true?” Sharon pursued, her eyes wide
“Tep”
Lawson nodded.
The path got even narrower, and Sharon walked really close to Lawson. She could smell the fruity scent on him, he something a girl would wear.
He was known for changing girlfriends as often as he changed shirts..
Sharon knew all about it. She bit her lip and had to ask, “Lawson, I heard your mom’s been nagging you to get married!”
He chuckled softly with a lazy sound that rolled off his tongue. His chuckle was pleasant, wrapping around Sharon’s ears, making them tingle like she was getting a tiny electric shock
“My family’s always pushing for marriage, but I’ve never said yes, Lawson said, shrugging.
“Aren’t you gonna get married then?” Sharon asked, curious.
Lawson’s face was blank, but his voice had a hint of sarcasm. “Marriage? Like Frank and Elizabeth No way. I’m not as patient as them. I’m not good Marguing.”
He’d probably walk out or get angry a
after a couple of fights.
But he couldn’t hit a woman, so he’d just have to take it. Then why bother when being single is way more fun!
Sharon’s lips pressed tight, and her ears under her soft hair tumed a little pink.
Without realizing it, they found themselves in front of North Building, Lawson was about to bid Sharon farewell, but Insead of leaving, she tagged along as he headed upstairs.
Sharon by
had other plans
They hadn’t even made it far when they faintly heard the sound of shattered and dissonant notes hovering in the air through the locked and tightly shudour. It was vague and dreamlike, carrying the sweet, soft timidity unique to a woman’s voice.
12:45 PM
Chapter 44
They both knew that voice well.
Embarrassment painted Sharon’s cheeks red as she and Lawson exchanged a glance. Then they quickly looked away from each other.
