Mrs. Brown expressed her concerns, saying, “I’m worried about how much Hank listens to Jessica. That girl knows how to play hard-to-get and still hasn’t fully committed to him. The longer Hank waits, the more he desires her. She’s making him fall head over heels for her. If they get married and Hank allows her to manage his bank account, our lives will become more difficult.” Chelsea reflected on the monthly allowance her brother provided to their parents, which was primarily used to support her own family. She had benefited greatly from it and did not want her soon-to-be sister-in-law to take that advantage away. Therefore, she replied, “Forget it. That’s Hank and Liberty’s issue. Let them handle it.” “As long as Hank can keep his affair hidden from Liberty, I won’t get involved. Men can’t be trusted. They’ll stray if they have the means,” Mrs. Brown thought, believing her son was attractive enough to draw a young and beautiful woman even as a father. Regardless, she felt her son wouldn’t be at a disadvantage no matter what. Liberty was aware that her mother-in-law and sister-in-law spoke poorly of her, but she was oblivious to their complicity in helping Hank conceal his infidelity. After she sent the bothersome duo away, Liberty asked, “Seren, Jasmine, why did you buy so many things?” “Liberty, it’s just some fruits and snacks—nothing too pricey,” Jasmine replied with a smile. “I figured since you’re home alone with Sonny, you could indulge as much as you like. If you can’t finish it, just store it in the refrigerator and enjoy it at your leisure. That way, it won’t be taken by unwanted guests.” She noticed Chelsea glance at the items before leaving. Last time, Hank had given away the gifts Serenity and Zachary bought for Liberty to his parents and sister, which had upset her. After Serenity finished feeding her nephew, she brought him a new toy and let him play by himself. She
She asked her sister, “Liberty, did you hear what Chelsea said?” “What did she say?” Liberty hadn’t been paying attention to Chelsea earlier, as she often talked too much, so she didn’t remember. “She mentioned that if you keep arguing with Hank, you should be wary of other women stealing your husband. I feel like she’s hinting at something. Maybe Hank has a mistress. Liberty, you should be vigilant. If he is cheating, gather evidence before you consider a divorce. That way, you can fight for your share of the assets. You can’t just let them take everything.”
Liberty was somewhat surprised, but it wasn’t entirely unexpected. Hank was very focused on maintaining his appearance. He wore suits and dress shoes daily, projecting the allure of a mature man with a successful career. Even though he drove a six-figure car—a purchase made before his promotion to a managerial position, for which he was still repaying the loan—he was regarded as successful by others. With his determination, he could easily pursue young and attractive women as mistresses. “I’m not concerned about his affairs right now. I need to find a job first.” Liberty believed that securing employment and a source of income was her top priority. She sensed that her marriage to Hank was nearing its end.
