Burn the Marriage, Keep the Crown novel Chapter 286

Serena’s body trembled again.

William noticed and frowned.

“Mr. Weatherly,” he said, “go take a moment to gather your thoughts. And Miss Chatham, I’d appreciate it if you could step out as well.”

Gabrielle opened her mouth to protest, but Giles gently pulled her away before she could say a word.

Only when they rounded the corner did Giles finally let her go.

“What’s your problem?” Gabrielle snapped. “Serena needs me right now!”

Giles regarded her coolly, his eyes unreadable as he looked her up and down. “Are you sure you know how to comfort Serena?”

Gabrielle fell silent.

She and Serena had been friends back in middle school, but ever since high school, their lives had taken different paths.

Now, after all these years, it was obvious to Gabrielle that Serena had changed—she was nothing like the girl she’d once known.

So, was she really the right person to console Serena? Gabrielle wasn’t sure she could.

Especially considering how much Serena adored her father. To find out she’d been responsible for his death—Gabrielle couldn’t even imagine how devastated Serena must be.

“If you can’t help,” Giles said quietly, “then come with me.”

Still worried, Gabrielle pressed herself against the wall and peeked back around the corner.

She caught sight of William gently patting Serena’s shoulder. Though she couldn’t hear what he was saying, there was a softness in his expression she’d never seen before. The warmth was genuine, nothing like his usual, carefully composed politeness. It was as if a glacier had finally melted, washing away every trace of distance.

Relieved, Gabrielle allowed Giles to lead her away.

Meanwhile, at the staircase—

Bella paced anxiously. “Mr. Leighton,” she pressed, “didn’t you promise you’d help us win this case? Why do you suddenly seem powerless now that Giles is involved?”