Nevertheless, Katherine remained perturbed and continued to probe further.
This probing eventually led to an unexpected revelation. The woman Wade was planning to marry had only known him for a few days, and they came from vastly different social backgrounds with no real emotional connection.
So why the sudden decision to marry?
It wasnât just Joelle being overly cautious; even someone as seasoned as she, who had witnessed many oddities, found Wadeâs actions perplexing.
That evening, Adrian returned home from work.
Joelle shared the dayâs events with him.
By chance, Adrian had also been withholding information about Wade.
Callan had discovered that the person who had secretly taken photographs had been hired by Wade.
Did his hatred for Joelle run so deep? Just because she had refused to hand over Ryland, did he want to destroy her?
âAdrian, doesnât it strike you as odd? If he genuinely cared about Ryland, why would he be planning a wedding? And even go shopping for wedding shoes with the bride?â Adrian drew her close. âWhatâs on your mind?â
Joelle shook her head. âIt just seems his words and actions are at odds. When I first met him, he didnât seem like the type to behave this way.â
âIndeed,â Adrian responded calmly. âHeâs never been trustworthy. The debts his brother had before his death were actually Wadeâs. His company was in trouble, and Chris was gravely ill, so he exploited Chrisâ death to avoid his responsibilities.â
Upon hearing Adrianâs words, Joelleâs guilt towards Wade faded. He didnât seem bothered, so she decided not to dwell on his previous remarks in the morgue. âAdrian, I think Iâm ready to return to work.â
Joelle laid her head on Adrianâs lap as he tenderly massaged her.
Their psychologist, who advocated for holistic methods, had recommended massages to relax both the mind and body. Adrian had discreetly learned a few techniques, and they were proving effective for Joelle.
âAre you sure it wonât be too tiring?â he asked.
Joelle nodded with a smile. âThe work at the studio isnât overwhelming, and I believe being busy will help me refocus. Itâs something that truly adds meaning to my life.â
Adrian paused briefly. Having successfully shielded her from online gossip, he felt that maybe the outside world wasnât as dangerous as he had feared.
âAlright, but remember to take breaks if you feel overwhelmed. Donât overexert yourself.â
âOkay.â
Adrian bent down to give her a gentle kiss on the lips. âAurora will be staying with Leah tonight. Do you want toâ¦?â
A decline in sexual interest is often a symptom of depression, but Joelle didnât want to let Adrian down, so she managed a forced smile and consented.
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