Love and Devotion No Longer His to Claim (Angela and Dexter) novel Chapter 97

Chapter 97 

Angela was nearly choked by Fiona’s words. 

Good grief, Fiona’s way of thinking was way too bold. 

“Mom, do you have to be this blunt? Could you at least pretend to say something comforting?” Angela said, caught between laughter and exasperation. 

“What’s the point of that?” Fiona replied, unbothered. “Feelings are what they are. If they’re gone, they’re gone. No use clinging to something that’s already lost. Look at me and Dexter’s father–we haven’t spoken in over a year. The last time we exchanged words was during last year’s Christmas dinner, when we said ‘Merry Christmas.‘ And yet, here I am, living just fine.” 

Fiona’s tone carried the air of someone who had already planned out Angela’s future. She spoke like a seasoned veteran of life’s harsh realities. 

“How can two people live under the same roof without any affection?” Angela forced a weak smile. The thought alone left her heart feeling heavy and dull. 

She had only ever loved one person in her life, only to be discarded like she didn’t matter. 

“Maybe my situation is different from yours,” Fiona continued, her gaze sharp and direct, but you need to think this through. I support your ambition to focus on your career and will help you wherever I can. But as for everything else, tread carefully. If the day comes when we’re no longer in–laws, any kindness I’ve shown you will be snatched back completely.” 

Angela stared at Fiona, momentarily stunned by how clear–headed her mother–in–law was 

What a shame. If their relationship hadn’t been so rocky in the beginning, they might have been able to connect on a deeper level. Now, it felt like they were only maintaining a surface -level peace. 

Just then, Fiona’s phone rang. It was Joseph calling with what seemed to be urgent news. 

Fiona’s expression darkened as she glanced at Angela before ending the call. 

“What’s wrong?” Angela asked. 

“There’s been a thief in the house,” Fiona replied, standing up and grabbing her bag. “A few antique vases and Natalie’s bracelet are missing. Stay here and rest–don’t concern yourself with anything unnecessary.” 

Angela’s unease grew. Fiona hadn’t been in charge of the household for long, and already something like this had happened. It was bound to raise doubts about Fiona’s ability to manage the family’s affairs, potentially even impacting her career. 

After some thought, Angela decided to return to the house with Dexter. She needed to keep 

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Chapter 97 

an eye on things since she had been the one to push for Fiona to take charge of the household in the first place. 

“Angie, how are you feeling? I heard you had your appendix removed. I was about to visit you,” Joseph greeted her warmly as soon as she arrived, taking her hand with genuine 

concern. 

“I’m fine, Grandpa. I heard about what happened at home and decided to come back with Dexter to check on things.” 

Joseph had her sit down on the couch, covering her with a blanket to keep her warm. 

“Fiona is already looking into it. I’m sure she’ll have answers soon,” he said with a sigh. Perhaps she’s been too busy. Managing both the household and her other responsibilities must be overwhelming, which is probably why there were oversights.” 

“Dad, you’re absolutely right,” Ursula chimed in as she walked in from outside, her tone casual but laced with mockery. “Fiona has so much on her plate–balancing the company and the household–it’s no wonder things slipped through the cracks. Trying to prove herself like this might just backfire, don’t you think?” 

The room fell into an awkward silence. 

Angela didn’t respond, but she subtly signaled to Dexter to help with the investigation. 

Within an hour, the culprit was caught. It was a long–time servant who had worked for the family for about eight years. 

She had taken advantage of a technical issue with the manor’s security system two nights ago, knowing the surveillance cameras were down.