The Wife You Buried Is Back from Hell novel Chapter 953

Danielle’s head snapped up, her eyes wide with astonishment. “What did you say?”

“I’m not trying to take advantage of your situation,” River added quickly. “I know this is sudden, but I just want to help you. You’re being swamped by these rumors, and it’s not just affecting your job—it could even impact Niki. If you’re willing, I can…”

“No.” Danielle cut him off before he could finish, her brow furrowed. “River, you’re a good man, and you’ve always been there for me. I’m truly grateful for that.”

She was thinking rationally. “But I can’t do this. I can’t use your reputation to get myself out of trouble when I know there’s no future for us. That would be exploiting your kindness and giving you false hope. I can’t do something like that.”

She was well aware of River’s feelings for her; she hadn't been oblivious. But she simply didn’t have the energy to start a new relationship. She didn’t want to use his genuine affection as a tool and end up hurting him.

River’s heart ached, but he softened his tone. “You don’t have to worry. We would just be pretending for a while.” He paused, his gaze resting on her tense face. “I know what you’re worried about, but we can tell everyone we just started dating. Once the rumors die down, we can find a suitable reason for an ‘amicable breakup.’ It won’t cause you any trouble, and it won’t put me in an awkward position.”

Danielle took the card, the edge of it cool against her fingertips, her mind a whirlwind of emotions. She knew River was genuinely trying to help her, even willing to put himself in an awkward position just to do so. His kindness left her feeling both grateful and guilty.

Watching his retreating back, Danielle clutched the card tightly. The hallway lights cast a long, lonely shadow behind her as she stood rooted to the spot, her mind torn. Agreeing to River’s plan would quickly put an end to the rumors and protect Niki, but it meant exploiting his feelings. Refusing meant facing this crisis alone, with no clear solution, and potentially allowing her daughter to be hurt.

After what felt like an eternity, Danielle slowly lifted her head, her eyes filled with uncertainty. She pulled out her phone and found Kirsten’s number, but hesitated to press dial. She knew that, ultimately, this was a decision she had to make on her own.