Chapter 25: Fractured Loyalties
Jack’s POV
I drove away from Phoenix Project headquarters, my knuckles white against the steering wheel. The decision to drop Lucy off at her place before heading back to the Simpson mansion was automatic.
The atmosphere inside the car was suffocating. Even the air conditioning seemed to struggle against the weight of tension filling the space between us.
I stared straight ahead at the road, refusing to glance at the woman beside me.
"Jack, I’m so sorry, I’m so sorry."
Lucy’s voice cracked as she continued crying. The sound grated against my already frayed nerves. "This is all my fault. I embarrassed you. It’s all because of me. Please don’t be angry, don’t be mad at me, okay?"
My temples throbbed with each word she spoke. A headache built behind my eyes as I gripped the steering wheel tighter, the veins in my forearms standing out prominently. I remained silent, my jaw clenched so tight I could feel the pressure in my teeth.
Once, I had found her emotional vulnerability charming. There was something about Lucy’s delicate nature that had appealed to me so different from Anna’s unyielding strength and independence. I’d believed a woman like Lucy soft, sweet, and in need of protection made the perfect partner.
Anna’s refusal to show weakness had always made me uncomfortable, her fierce self-reliance leaving me feeling unnecessary.
But now, Lucy’s tears just irritated me further.
"Has crying ever solved anything?" I finally snapped, my voice cold and flat as I navigated through a yellow light. I kept my eyes fixed on the road ahead, my brow furrowed deeply. "Lucy, you’ve really disappointed me."
The words landed like a physical blow.