Chapter 36

When Elise really thought about it, she realized everything Samuel had done was for Zara. When she'd slapped Zara in the restaurant earlier, a waiter had seen it. Samuel might have suppressed the incident, but deep down, he'd never believe her side of the story. He was convinced that she would spread rumors out of spite for Zara. After all, she'd once loved him deeply. It would only seem natural for her to lash out at Zara. Elise had backed herself into a corner. Any promises she made now would sound hollow. She didn't even know what to say. Silence hung heavy in the air. "Lucas has been sick since that day," Samuel said, breaking the silence. "He's been resting at Hilltop Manor. You're responsible for him since you insisted on giving birth to him." Elise had wanted a child with Samuel, but she'd never intended to trick him into having one. It was Anna who'd arranged everything. Elise hadn't known the details until it was too late. Back then, she'd been too in love with Samuel t