Chapter Fifty-Four—Veronica, Victoria, Whatever

“But… Isn’t she? Everyone knows she blackmailed you into tossing Ms. Cain aside.” Edward didn’t expect Michael’s response to his words. His explanation spoke volumes. Edward Phillips listened to gossip and believed the lies.

Michael laughed at Edward’s response, though there wasn’t much mirth in the sound. He found it the funniest thing he’d heard all day.

“What gave you that idea? That’s false. I wanted her, sure. But Aria distracted me from Julie. Then Aria ran off with Leon hours before the wedding. I seized the opportunity and urged Julie to step in. It was in her best interest to marry me.” Michael’s eyes watched Edward like a sleepy predator. “Aria’s situation had nothing to do with Julie and everything to do with her actions. Aria did a lot of things and placed the blame on Julie. She’s been doing things to Julie for years. Her little green dragon perched on her shoulder needs to lose weight. Julie and I are very much still married and we’re working on