Chapter 4

Finn's parents are convinced we know where their son is.

They're constantly hounding us, almost moving into our house, but Declan remains unfazed.

After all, the man is dead; show some compassion to his parents.

Ethan's arrival brought me some relief.

Ethan served in the military for a few years, and I inexplicably felt admiration and trust for him.

"Aren't you ever going to tell her?"

Outside, it was quiet, and Ethan's voice was jarring.

I held my breath for a long time, but Declan didn't respond.

When I opened the door, Declan's expression returned to the gentle one I knew.

All that was left for me was Ethan, red-faced. Angry?

Ethan seemed surprised I was awake, cautiously watching me.

Of course, I had to pretend I knew nothing.

I casually asked Declan to warm up a cup of milk for me.

As Declan headed to the kitchen, it was just Ethan and me sitting across from each other on the sofa.

After days of subtle probing, I knew by now that Declan would indulge my every whim, as long as it didn't mean sending him away.

Just as Sunny said, he loves me deeply.

"Ethan, Sunny mentioned you once pursued me, but I can't recall it."

Ethan's face turned pale abruptly.

It seemed like there was more to the story.

"You know my ex-husband," I stated firmly.

Ethan was startled by my assertion.

His bright eyes stared at me, revealing nothing of what he might be thinking.

The milk was delightful, and so was Declan.

Ethan quickly composed himself and started discussing Finn's parents with Declan.

It turned out that Ethan had already asked his cousin, the bureau chief, to arrange our return.

Ethan still had his uses.

Despite it being the height of summer, I found myself breaking out in a cold sweat.