Chapter 644

Earl knew he was losing his composure. When he first married Kendra, she had made it clear their union was one of mutual benefit—a practical arrangement he'd agreed to willingly. Though aware she didn't love him, he'd secretly hoped time might kindle affection. But over two decades, Kendra's unwavering politeness remained as frostily proper as their wedding day. The bitter irony wasn't lost on him; perhaps he should never have entertained such delusions. Still, he consoled himself—at least she was here, by his side. That was what truly mattered. Yet news of Eliseo's son returning had unraveled his carefully maintained calm. Memories surged of the torment he'd endured when their daughter Irene married that boy, though he'd never let it show. The divorce had been an unexpected relief... even if Kendra had remained characteristically detached throughout. This explained why other patriarchs would rage over a daughter's failed marriage while he'd offered only understanding. The world mistoo