All Chapters of She's Mine To Claim: Chapter 21 - Chapter 30

“So, where are you going now?” Christian asked.Hailey lifted the bag of sushi slightly.“To the hospital. My uncle is there because of his heart condition.”Christian's expression changed.“What hospital?”“Holtbay Hospital.”“I can take you.”Hailey shook her head.“It's okay. I'll call York.”Christian looked at her.“Your driver?”Hailey paused.She had mentioned too much.“Yes.”Christian noticed the hesitation but didn't question her.“I can still take you. I'm heading that way.”“You don't have to.”“Hailey.”He smiled.“Aren't we friends?”She laughed.He had just bought her lunch, and now he was worried she didn't consider him a friend.“Fine.”“Wait here. I'll get my car.”Hailey nodded.Christian headed toward the parking area.Once he was out of sight, he pulled out his phone.“Professor Leslie.”“Christian?”“I need a favor.”Leslie Stewart, vice dean of one of Holtbay Hospital's branches, sounded curious.“What kind of favor?”“I'm bringing a friend to your hospital. She'

The three women said nothing about Hailey's clothes.No one commented on her bag either.That alone told Hailey something.Travis had been right.What seemed expensive to her was probably nothing unusual to the Blake family.Still, she noticed Rowena looking at her outfit for a second longer than necessary.At least no one could complain that she looked too simple today.Hailey wasn't sure whether that made her grateful to Travis or annoyed with him.Probably both.The soft sound of Lilian's chanting finally stopped.Her fingers became still around the wooden rosary.Then she opened her eyes.Her gaze immediately settled on Hailey.For a moment, no one spoke.Then Lilian said, “Why are you still standing? Sit down.”Hailey blinked.Even Thalia looked slightly surprised.Hailey glanced around.Unfortunately, the only available seat was beside Rowena.Wonderful.She walked over and sat.Rowena's cold stare followed her the entire way.Hailey pretended not to notice.“Did you want to see

Hailey stared at the contract in her hands. Three million dollars. Every time she saw the number, something inside her tightened. “Keep it,” Lilian said. Hailey looked up. “It may hurt to know the truth now, but one day you may be glad you have that contract.” Lilian slowly moved the rosary through her fingers. “As I told everyone earlier, you're part of this family now. Calvin is gone, but that doesn't mean we throw you away with him.” Rowena's expression changed. Hailey noticed but said nothing. “I don't need that contract to force you to remain here forever,” Lilian continued. “But while you are part of this household, I expect you to remember that your actions affect the Blake family too.” Hailey looked down at the papers. For so long, she had seen Lilian as nothing more than a strict old woman trapped in family traditions. Now she wasn't so sure. Lilian had protected her position in the family. She had allowed her to work after Calvin's mourning period. And now she

“If you hadn't been his wife, I wouldn't have been your daughter.” Hailey had finally regained control of herself. She didn't want Eva blaming herself for everything Denver had done. “You gave me life, Mom. I'm grateful for that.” “Hailey…” “Don't worry about me. I'm fine.” Hailey looked toward the Stewart house. “The Blake family isn't mistreating me. Grandma made that very clear today.” She didn't mention the contract. Not yet. Eva was already upset enough. “I have something I need to deal with,” Hailey continued. “I'll call you again.” “Are you sure you're okay?” “Yes.” Hailey softened her voice. “Take care of yourself and Uncle.” She ended the call. --- Eva remained sitting alone for a long time. Tears continued falling down her face. She had spent years blaming herself. Denver had betrayed their marriage. Then, when Hailey grew older, his decisions had dragged their daughter into his problems too. Eva covered her mouth to stop herself from crying too loudly.

“He's waiting for you.” Hailey nodded. “Okay.” She took two steps, then stopped. The hallway seemed to move slightly. Hailey blinked. Maybe drinking had been a terrible idea. She looked around. A maid noticed. “Young Madam, are you looking for something?” “A trash can.” The maid glanced at the small bottle in Hailey's hand. “I can take that for you.” Hailey hesitated. Then she handed it over. “Thank you.” The maid looked at the bottle. Then at Hailey's flushed face. She wisely said nothing. “Mr. Blake is in his study. I'll show you.” Hailey followed her. Blake Manor was enormous, and Hailey still didn't know every part of it. Tonight, with her head feeling unusually light, she wasn't confident she could find Travis's study without getting lost. When they reached the door, the maid stopped. “He's inside.” Hailey took a breath. “Okay.” She knocked. “Come in.” Travis's voice came from inside. Hailey opened the door. --- Travis was sitting behind his desk wi