Chapter 163

Robert Hawthorne was getting more fired up by the second. One glance at the refined and poised Lydia Moore, then another at Alice, and he was practically fuming—veins pulsing on his forehead. Alice bit her lower lip lightly, choosing to stay silent. When she caught sight of Edward's clenched fists and icy expression out of the corner of her eye, she quickly grabbed his hand and subtly shook her head. Edward’s already gloomy gaze darkened further as he tightened his grip on Alice’s hand and prepared to stand— But then a loud roar cut through the room. “I’m not dead yet! Don’t think you get to run your mouth here!” Mr. Hawthorne's brow furrowed tight as he barked out the words. Without warning, he lifted his cane and smacked it hard against Robert’s shin. Robert yelped in pain and finally sat back down, avoiding eye contact with his father as guilt flashed across his face. Satisfied he’d finally shut up, Mr. Hawthorne let out a soft huff. But when he turned to Alice, his stern face softe