The Kiss that Sparked it All

Her stance was unwavering, and Francis’s face darkened instantly. “He hasn’t even said anything, and you’re already cutting me off. Is this how a daughter is supposed to act?”

Regina’s expression soured. If Nolan weren’t there, she would have already started arguing with her dad. But with him present, she didn’t want him to witness such bickering. She just wanted to finish the meal as quickly as possible and then take him away.

The comfort she felt dining with the Harris family was in stark contrast to the discomfort she experienced at her own home. Why was the atmosphere in these two households as different as night and day?

“Look at the fine daughter I raised. Barely married for a few days, and she’s already turning her back on us. Nolan, I don’t know what kind of tricked you’ve played on my daughter, making her blindly loyal to you.”

“Dad, when has he ever tricked to me? On the other hand, the Tanner family has been leeching off the Harris family, and he hasn’t complained about us a bit.” Regina retorted, a bit too eagerly in front of Nolan, exposing the Tanner family’s parasitic behavior.

This embarrassed Francis. In a fit of anger, he slammed his hand on the table, standing up as if to slap Regina.

Nolan was quicker. He grabbed his arm firmly.

“Let’s keep this verbal, no need for physical actions, especially not at the dinner table. It doesn’t look good to others.”

Francis hadn’t expected Nolan to be so strong. He didn’t look athletic at all; yet with just one hand, he seemed to effortlessly restrain him. Francis was unable to pull free, and it was only Nolan’s reluctance to see Regina distressed that made him let go.

“Since we’ve finished our meal, let’s just go our separate ways.” Nolan said, taking Regina’s hand and not looking back or bidding anyone goodbye as they left the Tanner residence.

Francis fumed even more behind them. “The world’s turned upside down!”

Imogen quickly tried to soothe him, “Ah, these young people don’t understand formalities They’re newlyweds, basking in their honeymoon phase. You tried to hit Regina, and he jus couldn’t stand it. He didn’t lay a finger on you, so count your blessings. Maybe he’s really head over heels for Regina. Imagine how angry he’d be if you hurt his beloved. Right now, we need the Harris family’s support!” Content (C) Nôv/elDra/ma.Org.

But her words only inflamed Francis further. “So you’re looking down on me too?” He backhanded Imogen, causing her to stagger.

Madeline screamed, rushing to protect her.

“Dad, how could you hit Mom? She’s pregnant with your child. What if something happened to the baby?”

Francis immediately regretted his action, remembering that his precious son was yet to be born.

He hurriedly called for the family doctor to check on Imogen, then anxiously helped her to the couch to lie down.

Fortunately, she didn’t show any serious discomfort, just turned away, holding her abdomen, refusing to speak to him.

“I’m sorry, Imogen. It was my fault. I let my emotions get the best of me. Please, scold me. I shouldn’t have done this in such a rage. You were right – they’re newlyweds, completely in love, and of course Nolan would resent me. shouldn’t have been so reckless, especially not considering your condition. I’ll never do that again. Please forgive me this once.” Francis pleaded, holding her hand.

But Imogen was adamant, not even looking back at him.

Even when Madeline felt his apologies were enough, Imogen still didn’t turn around. “You go take care of your things. I need some time alone.”