Bride Behind the Mask novel Chapter 841

A sudden burst of light caused Hayes to squint, needing a moment to adjust. He half-closed his eyes, pointing to his smartwatch with a hint of pride.

“My watch has an anti-spy system, you know. It automatically detects cameras when connected to the internet. Mom, where you live is totally safe. But why is Uncle Maurice still trying to date you?”

Marguerite sighed, feeling a bit overwhelmed. “He’s not trying to date me, honey. Don’t let your imagination run wild.”

Hayes was persistent. “He totally is! I overheard Grandma and Nana talking about how he moved his whole company to Cresthaven just a few days ago. If that’s not trying to date you, then what is?”

“I don’t like him. I’d rather you be with Uncle Silas than with him.”

Marguerite was surprised by Hayes’ candidness and pulled him into a hug, curious. “You like Silas?”

Hayes nodded earnestly, his eyes full of sincerity. “Yeah, I do.”

“Why’s that?”

Hayes paused, searching for the right words. Finally, with the straightforwardness only a child can muster, he said, “Because he smells like Dad!”

Marguerite fell silent. It was, undoubtedly, the highest compliment her young son could give, yet it did nothing to lift her spirits.

Frederick had shot Teresa, but to Hayes, he remained the father he adored, unchanged in his young heart.

Marguerite felt the same. She loved Frederick, no matter what.

But today, when Maurice showed her that video, she had broken down like never before.

Her love for Frederick was still there, but now it was entangled with a web of complicated emotions.

She snapped back to the present, her eyes welling up again, but she still felt the need to remind him, “Don’t say things like that. You can’t just call anyone your dad.”

Hayes sighed, feeling a bit exasperated. He knew his mom didn’t believe him, but he had no proof to offer.

Before they’d reunited, his dad had once asked him why he liked Marguerite.