Shattered Then Healed By His Love (by Haley Blanton) novel Chapter 23

Chapter 23 A Locked Door and a Glass Barrier

Chapter 23 A Locked Door and a Glass Barrier

Jackson didn’t even get a full sentence out before Marcus cut him off.

There was a hidden meaning in his tone–and Jackson caught it immediately.

Before he could respond, Marcus turned and walked away with brisk, steady steps.

Jackson stared after him, a shadow flickering across his face.

Why did it feel like…

Uncle Marcus was always protecting that woman?

Was it just his imagination?

With Gabriel present, Natalie had no choice but to stay and finish dinner.

And of course, Grandpa insisted she share a drink or two with them.

Later that evening, Gabriel’s true intentions became crystal clear.

*20 Free Come

“Natalie, you’ve had quite a bit to drink. You should just stay the night,” he said with a kind, coaxing smile. “You can share a room with Jackson, and I’ll let Aiden sleep with me.”

Natalie glanced at Jackson beside her and was just about to decline when he unexpectedly beat her to it.

“Grandpa, I’ve still got work tonight. I might not be able to stay.”

“What work could be more important than your wife?” Gabriel frowned. “You’re not going anywhere. Natalie’s had too much–she needs someone to look after her.”

Natalie looked toward Gabriel, but her gaze accidentally drifted past him–to the man sitting in silence nearby.

Marcus was leaning back against the sofa, elbow resting casually on the armrest, fingertips pressed lightly against his lips. His expression was unreadable as he watched everything unfold.

Natalie quickly looked away and turned back to Gabriel. “It’s okay, Grandpa. I don’t need anyone to take care of me. I’ll just sleep in the guest room.”

She stood, wobbling a little from the wine, and made her way toward the stairs.

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6:21 Fri, Sep 26

食べ

Chapter 23 A Locked Door and a Glass Barrier

“Jackson, go with her,” Gabriel ordered.

Jackson hesitated for a moment but ultimately gave in and followed her upstairs.

Behind them, a pair of sharp, narrow eyes followed every step.

“Marcus, did you bring your driver tonight?” Gabriel asked.

Marcus pulled his gaze back and looked at his father.

+20 Free Coins

He let out a low chuckle. “You’re keeping your grandson and granddaughter–in–law here, and kicking me out?”

“That’s not what I meant–you know that.” Gabriel leaned in a little, lowering his voice. “Your room is right next to Jackson’s. They haven’t shared a room in a long time… tonight might be the night…”

He didn’t finish the sentence, but his meaning was obvious.

Marcus, always sharp, easily read between the lines.

He smirked faintly. “You might be lighting a match, but I doubt the fire’s going to catch.”

Gabriel didn’t quite understand, but by the time he looked up again, Marcus had already started walking upstairs.

At the top of the staircase, Marcus saw Jackson locked out of the bedroom.

He was pounding on the door. “Natalie, open up.”

Marcus walked past him.

Jackson turned and blinked in surprise. “Uncle Marcus? You’re staying the night too?”

“Yes.”

Marcus gave him a cool look and headed toward the study.

Behind him, Jackson’s knocking resumed.

“Natalie, open the door.”

As Jackson passed the guest rooms, he noticed all the doors were locked.

He couldn’t help but let out a bitter laugh.

2/3

6:21 Fri, Sep 26

Chapter 23 A Locked Door and a Glass Barrier

Gabriel really had gone all out trying to set the two of them up.

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