A Widow's Poison, A Wife's Rebellion novel Chapter 435

Brinley was determined to leave Marina City. She was past caring about the consequences and dialed her mother.

Again and again, the call went unanswered.

With no other choice, she called a number she had always despised. The call was answered by Clyde.

“Miss,” he said.

His voice lacked its usual strength; he sounded like a man who had been dealt a heavy blow. Brinley’s heart hammered against her ribs.

“Why isn’t my mother answering her phone?” she asked, her tone still haughty despite the unease creeping into her.

For years, Clyde had been by Harriet’s side. Officially, he was her special assistant, but Brinley had always known there was more to their relationship. She even suspected that Quest was her mother’s son, though she never understood why his identity was kept secret. Consequently, she had never treated Clyde with any respect.

Clyde, seemingly unfazed, replied respectfully, “She’s dealing with some matters. She’s very troubled at the moment.”

“Troubled? You mean the issue from before isn't resolved yet? I thought it was supposed to be handled,” Brinley’s voice turned cold.

“It’s better if you don’t ask, miss.”

“What’s going on?”

“Just take care of yourself for now,” Clyde said. “And please, try not to bother your mother unless it’s an emergency.”

Brinley was speechless. Take care of herself?

Clyde heard the barely concealed fury in her voice and said calmly, “I’m afraid your mother can’t help you right now.”

“What do you mean? How could my mother not be able to help me?”

Brinley’s tone grew even colder. Was Clyde refusing to pass on her message, or was her mother truly powerless? Her mother, who had been a formidable presence both in Marina City and abroad for years—how could she be unable to help? Was he joking?

Brinley struggled to contain her anger.

“Your mother is still trying to resolve her own situation,” Clyde explained. “Didn’t she text you before? She told you that if you couldn't hold on, you should surrender to Starla.”

Brinley fell silent. The memory of that text message sent a fresh wave of dread through her. The sinking feeling in her stomach intensified, turning into a cold, hard knot.