Chapter 529

After Samuel Drake left, Matthew Drake didn’t fall apart or anything. He went upstairs, knocked on Grace Drake’s door. When she opened it, her eyes were all red and swollen from crying. “Grace, I can’t protect you forever,” Matthew said coldly, not like he usually did. “You’ve got to learn to stand on your own.” “Why? Are you leaving me too?” Grace grabbed onto his sleeve, panicked. All these years, her brother had always been there. Now suddenly he was saying he wouldn't be around anymore? What did that even mean? “You know I owe someone my life,” he said flatly, like he’d already accepted his fate. “Vincent Reeves went in today. Tomorrow, it could be me. Or Dad.” “No! Don’t go! I’m scared…” Grace broke down, throwing her arms around him. Matthew hardened his heart and pushed her away. “You’re a Brooks, Grace. It’s time to cut ties with me. Going back to Grandpa is the best choice for you. I’ll take you there tomorrow.” “I’m not going! I just want to stay with you!” she cried, trying