Chapter 5 Decided Against Breaking Up With Cedric

Jeremy's menacing words had such an impact that even Cedric felt a wave of panic wash over him.

It wasn't until Jeremy strode out of the room that Heather allowed herself to collapse into Cedric's arms, her back damp with a thin sheen of sweat.

Once the door clicked shut, Cedric's concern surfaced immediately. "Are you okay? Did he hurt you?"

"I'm fine," Heather murmured softly.

She had endured an intimate two-year relationship with Jeremy, well-acquainted with his oppressive possessiveness. While they were together, she relished his attention despite the intensity of his affection. She had become accustomed to his antagonism towards any man who approached her.

However, their encounter today revealed that Jeremy's gaze still held remnants of ownership, a complex mix of desire and possession, even though they had long since parted ways. His abrupt departure had left her unsettled, and his lingering possessiveness was palpable, as if he might still try to pull her back to his side if she ever truly left Cedric. This realization was partly why she decided against breaking up with Cedric. Staying with him seemed the safer, more stable choice.

As Cedric patted her back, his hesitation was palpable. He was aware of his family's disapproval of Heather, but Jeremy's overt hostility took him by surprise. Known for his stern demeanor, Jeremy's disapproval was intimidating, especially with Alexia's recent return stirring more doubts.

Heather could read the fear in Cedric's eyes, a clear reflection of his dread of Jeremy's threats. In that moment, she made a decisive move, pushing him slightly away. "You've disappointed me today, but we can't just end two years together so abruptly."

Upon seeing her tear-streaked face and her effort to suppress her sadness, Cedric's heart ached with empathy. He couldn't deny her allure, her overall persona strikingly aligned with his ideals.

Initially, he had been drawn to her because she resembled Alexia, but on closer observation, Heather was undoubtedly more beautiful, kinder, and more thoughtful than Alexia.

"Between us, words alone aren't enough to break things off," Cedric agreed, his voice low. "We need to have a serious discussion."

Heather nodded, a shadow of resolve flickering in her eyes.

...

Michael had no desire to interact with Jeremy. A few moments later, with his family and Alexia remained in the yard, he turned to Cedric with a direct command. "Get in the car. We're leaving."

Cedric glanced back at Heather. "I need to take Heather home first."

Michael's response was icy. "Can't she make it home on her own?"

The family's disdain for Heather was clear, and she was fully aware of their feelings. "I'll go back by myself. You can go," she said, resolving to face the journey alone.

With a troubled expression, Cedric touched her hand briefly before climbing into the car.

Meanwhile, Sharon was visibly stressed. Alexia approached, took her hand gently, and offered, "Mrs. Buckley, let me take you home."

Sharon examined Alexia. Years ago, she had paid to drive Cedric's first love abroad with five million dollars. Now, Alexia had returned as a member of the prominent Harris family, owners of the Zenith Group. Her elevated status made her a suitable match for Cedric, far more so than Heather, who came from modest beginnings.

"Alright, come with me in the car," Sharon consented. She turned to Jeremy, who had just emerged from the building clad in black, a cigarette dangling between his fingers. "Jeremy, it's getting dark, and her home is quite a distance away. Please, take her back."

"Okay," Jeremy responded, extinguishing his cigarette.

"No, thank you," Heather interjected quickly, still shaken by earlier events. "I'll take a taxi."

Once Sharon departed, only the Maybach remained in the dim light of the hilly road.

Heather edged past Jeremy to retrieve her purse. As she moved to bypass his car and leave, he reached out and grabbed her arm. "Get in the car."