Ch. 1841..1850
Married by Mistake: Mr. Whitman's Sinner Wife chapter 1841
When Adam heard those words, he could not help but feel ridiculed.
Why would I share the same goal with someone like you?
Are you certain? Carter threw the question back with a faint smile. "Wouldn't you want to fix the scar on your sister's face? Wouldn't you want to see her stand up again one day?"
At the mention of this, Adam briefly fell into an inattentive state.
Frankly, he had not expected Carter to bring him here for this reason.
Cathy was taken by surprise as well, but it also seemed reasonable to her.
Back then, she had sensed that Carter felt something for Shirley, but the emotions were buried deep within him.
Shirley, however, was unaware of the reasons behind Carter's decision in bringing Adam and Cathy to the Gray Manor. Shirley was now settled in her room, contemplating returning downstairs to take a look when Ada entered.
When Ada saw Shirley's worried expression, Ada smiled to herself, then sent the two servants out.
Shirley truly did not want to see Ada, but due to her current condition, she was not capable of getting rid of her.
"You'd like to know what happened downstairs, don't you?” Ada started the conversation.
Shirley ignored Ada. She knew that even if she stayed silent, Ada would not stop talking.
Sure enough, Ada chuckled as she observed Shirley's unruffled demeanor.
Your brother is not very likable. Is he really not afraid that Carter would teach him a lesson when he keeps offending him like this? Is he under the impression that his crippled sister here holds some weight in Carter's heart, and has forgotten that he is merely an ordinary doctor?"""
Ada rolled her eyes scornfully. Seeing that Shirley was still unperturbed, Ada grew a little anxious.
Shirley, how about we make a deal?
You want to make a deal with me? Shirley studied the ill-intentioned face in front of her suspiciously.
While keeping an eye on the doorway, Ada carefully walked towards the room's entrance to inspect the corridor. After confirming that Carter was still downstairs, she returned to Shirley's side.
Shirley, do you know why Carter brought your brother here? I heard it earlier.
Shirley was indeed worried about Adam, but she kept it in her heart and did not express it.
She knew that her explicit concern could put Adam in more danger, and he could be held against her.
Shirley thus gave Ada an indifferent look of disdain. "My brother and I have severed all ties between us. I don't care what Carter does to him. I'm actually hoping that he would use some cruel means."
... What? Ada could not believe her ears, but then she heard Shirley laughing dismissively.
What? Haven't you heard about us, Mrs. Gray? I've always been jealous of my brother. Since we were kids, he has always been the more distinguished one and the more favored one. That's why I'd wandered off into the streets.
Ada truly did not know that Shirley had been through such an experience.
Are you still planning to negotiate a deal with me using that? Ada, your deal is probably nothing more than a ploy to keep me from Carter. You're scared that I'd be a threat to your status, but I believe you're overanalyzing.
What? Ada's eyes widened, staring at Shirley suspiciously.
"Shirley, are you kidding me? You turned up here pregnant with that vile spawn in your womb, and you aren't doing this for the position of Mrs. Gray? Do you think I'm unaware that you like Carter?
Hmph!"
Ada let out a cold, contemptuous chuckle.
Your tricks are amazing, Shirley. You actually managed to seduce Carter into sleeping with you!
Married by Mistake: Mr. Whitman's Sinner Wife chapter 1842
Enough of this useless talk, Shirley interrupted her, "just stay as far away from me as possible.
You'd better not have any ideas about the child in m y womb. Otherwise, I'll let you have a taste of what it's like to lose a limb or be disfigured.”
How dare you threaten me? Ada was enraged; her expression turned dark and unsightly. “Do you think you can do whatever you want since you're pregnant with Carter's child? I'm tell you, Shirley. I f I wanted to kill that vile spawn in your womb, I won't even need to lift a finger. Just you wait!”
Ada warned Shirley furiously. Ada was about to turn around to leave, but Camille was standing at the door of the bedroom.
Ada's face paled in a flash. She was at a loss as she watched Camille walk into the room slowly. " Mom."
Camille shot a look of disgust at Ada. "What now? Since you don't have to lift a finger yourself, whose hands do you plan to use to murder my grandson? Your mother's?"
Ada bit her lip upon hearing this. Although she felt anxious, she was also angry at how Camille had addressed the child in Shirley's womb.
Grandson.
What type of grandson is this?
The only child that could be considered the Gray family's rightful grandson was the one Ada delivers!
Why aren't you speaking anymore, huh?
Mom, I... I was simply too jealous just now and ended up talking gibberish. In truth, how would I dare? Ada quibbled hurriedly.
You wouldn't dare? Furious, Camille glared at Ada. "Didn't you use a knife to disfigure Shirley's face with your own hands? If you dared to do such a thing, what else wouldn't you do?"
I didn't! Ada strived to defend herself. "There's no evidence to prove that I did it!"
Would you like me to prove it to you? Carter's cold voice from the bedroom entrance.
Ada fell silent instantly.
Carter eyed her impatiently. " I've told you to take good care of her. If anything happens to her or the child in her womb, you'll bear double the
consequences."
After listening to Carter's warning, Ada turned her face away and gritted her teeth discreetly.
Shirley then realized that Ada kept appearing in her room from time to time because Carter had asked Ada to take care of Shirley.
Although Ada had been taking care of Shirley, it felt more like Ada was waiting on Shirley instead.
Shirley glanced at Ada with a smile, then shifted her gaze onto Carter again. "I'd like to speak with you privately."
Carter nodded. "Sure."
Camille took the hint and turned around without a word.
Ada followed closely behind her, fearing another run-in with Carter.
The two of them were soon the only ones left in the room.
Shirley went straight to the point. "Where are they? What else are you planning to do?"
Carter placed his hands in his pockets and lazily replied, "As you've said, your brother Adam is the best doctor in Glendale. I've asked him to treat you.
If I don't see visible results in a month, I'll have my own way of motivating him.”
Shirley became anxious upon hearing his words. " Don't harm him, Carter! "
I didn't intend to do anything to him initially, but he personally told me that he's found out my purpose of coming to Glendale. What do you think I should do?
Shirley's face froze instantly; she was momentarily at a loss for words.
Carter bent down closer to her, a dangerous aura slowly enveloping Shirley.
If I can't convince him to join me, all I can do is make him submit and make him useful. After all, it's rare to find a talent like him. Don't you agree, mother of my child?
Married by Mistake: Mr. Whitman's Sinner Wife chapter 1843
Mother of his child.
These four words made Shirley's heart quiver.
Bemused, she looked at Carter as she said, "Don't get any ideas about him."
Shirley gave him a grave warning; her expression was abnormally stern.
He's different from us. Don't harass him.
When Carter heard her words, his lips twitched, revealing what appeared to be a satisfied smile.
We? So, you still think of us as an item.
Shirley was speechless. She never imagined Carter would nitpick on such a detail.
She then heard him continue to speak.
"In the past, you used to seem jealous and resentful toward Adam when you were with me. But now, you appear anxious and worried for your brother. It's truly hard to understand you.”
Upon hearing his sarcastic remarks, Shirley met Carter's gaze with feigned indifference.
I've told you before. I'd merely been using you to benefit myself. My actions were intentional..."""
“Oh, your acting is excellent. It's comparable to that of professionals."
Before Shirley could finish her sentence, Carter had cut her off. He narrowed his eyes, and the carefree tone in his voice suddenly turned solemn.
So, you're also acting now, aren't you?
His tone was cold, and his expression darkened considerably in an instant.
You love me, but you pretend otherwise.
Carter asked the question that hid in the depths of his heart as his gaze was fixed on Shirley's astonished expression.
It was during these few seconds in which Shirley's expression, which appeared distracted, provided Carter with the answer he wanted.
He did not stay any longer. Turning around, he left.
As he approached the door, Shirley's voice came behind him.
Don't harm him, and don't manipulate him.
Carter knew who Shirley meant by "him". He turned sideways and met Shirley's gaze.
As long as you know what to do, I'll know what to do as well.
With that sentence, heavy with implication, he left decisively.
Shirley slowly clenched her fists; her heart was a tangled mess.
She had no clue what Carter truly wanted.
The next day.
Shirley woke up in the morning to find Ada by Shirley's bed again.
Compared to her domineering and arrogant attitude yesterday, Ada's behavior was much more restrained today.
Despite Ada's reluctance, Ada had no choice but to obediently take care of Shirley. With the servant's help, Ada groomed and dressed Shirley, then served her breakfast.
Shirley's diet was tailored by a nutritionist whom Carter had personally hired. That made Ada jealous.
Although Shirley had no idea Carter was involved in this, she could somewhat sense it from Ada's expression.
After finishing breakfast, the first thing Shirley wanted to find out was Adam and Cathy's situation.
However, Carter was not around at that moment. Shirley asked the servants nearby, but all of them said that they had no idea and had no knowledge of Adam and Cathy's whereabouts.
Shirley felt anxious, worried that something might happen to Adam and Cathy.
Ada, who was by Shirley's side, spoke at that moment.
I know where they are.
Married by Mistake: Mr. Whitman’s Sinner Wife chapter 1844 Shirley lifted her gaze toward Ada. “Carter would share his matters with you?” Ada chuckled. “Wouldn’t I be able to find out even if he didn’t want me to know?
Well, if you don’t believe me, don’t follow me.” After she had spoken, Ada turned and walked the garden. Glancing behind, she saw Shirley catching up with her. Ada smiled to herself, satisfied that her tactical retreat had worked.
Ada’s smirk was not lost on Shirley, but Shirley chose not to be bothered by it.
This was the Gray Villa. Even if Ada had the courage of the gods, she would not dare to harm her.
However, Shirley was surprised by how large the villa was. Despite walking for two or three minutes, they were still in the garden.
She knew that Carter had put in a lot of effort to win over Glendale.
Carter had already been making preparations when she was sent to approach Jeremy.
He had always been someone who only accepted success—failure was not permitted; this time would be no different.
Shirley was thus truly concerned that Adam would become another one of Carter’s pawn.
All of this was weighing heavily on Shirley’s mind when Ada suddenly stopped in her tracks.
“Here. Your brother, and the one called Cathy, are here.” Shirley pressed the forward button on her wheelchair as she lifted her gaze to look ahead.
A small square house with a modern appearance laid before her. It was not a spacious place; it seemed more like a place where Carter would usually unwind and enjoy tea.
Shirley did not give it much thought. She was about to enter the house when she heard a familiar set of footsteps approaching behind her.
Before she could see the person, she noticed an abrupt change in Ada’s expression.
Without asking, Shirley already knew who it was.
“You brought her here?” Carter, In a cold tone and with a poker face, asked Ada reprovingly.
“Carter, you can’t blame me for this,” Ada explained with a sense of injustice, “she insisted on meeting her brother and Cathy, and you told me that I should accommodate whatever she wanted. I was merely following your orders.” Carter’s eyebrows twitched at Ada’s retort, then he said coldly, “You are not needed here. Go.” Ada pursed her lips, dissatisfied. Although she was reluctant, she could only leave.
Turning around, she glared at Shirley’s back as she laughed.
“Just you wait. I’ll not allow myself to be mistreated like this!” Ada swore discreetly to herself; she could only persuade herself to endure it at that point.
Immediately after Ada left, Carter stepped forward without hesitation to push Shirley’s wheelchair. He made a 18o-degree turn and steered her back in the direction she had come from.
Shirley knew it was pointless to argue. Who could she fight against in her current condition?
Furthermore, the person in question was Carter.
“I just wanted to confirm that they’re safe,” Shirley said; her voice was not as strong as before.
“If that’s the case, I can confidently confirm that within this month, they will be safe.” “Since you’re such close siblings, I believe that Adam also wants to help you in regaining your former appearance as soon as possible.” “Carter, could you stop being so naive? My face and legs were severely injured.
Even if Adam is really capable in this, do you think a month is long enough for him?” “If a month is not enough, I can add another month if necessary. In short, nobody can think about leaving until you have recovered.” Carter’s words were firm, and his attitude was adamant.
Not long after, he pushed Shirley directly into his basement laboratory.
“All the ingredients you’ll need for AXP6g’s anti- toxoid test reagent have been prepared for you.
Keep in mind to develop it as quickly as possible, preferably before the fourth stage of the poison triggers, ” Carter emphasized solemnly.
As Shirley stared at the laboratory table in front of her, the corners of her lips unwittingly curled into a self-deprecating sneer.
She reached out a hand to pick up the anti-toxoid test reagent. Its touch felt icy cold, just like the temperature in her heart at that moment. So cold.
“Shirley, did you hear what I just said?”
Married by Mistake: Mr. Whitman's Sinner Wife chapter 1845
When Shirley heard Carter asking reprovingly, a tinge of temper in his tone, she slowly laid down the anti-toxoid test reagent and steered her wheelchair toward the washbasin.
Minding her own business, she washed her hands, then donned a mask and a pair of gloves, and finally returned to the laboratory table before responding to Carter nonchalantly.
Mr. Gray, I'd like to start working now. Please leave.
Shirley's indifference upset Carter greatly. However, at the thought of the development of the anti-toxoid test reagent could not be delayed, he complied with Shirley's request.
Naturally, he would not leave Shirley completely unattended in the laboratory.
The moment he stepped outside, he activated the monitoring software on his phone so that he could monitor every movement in the laboratory.
Shirley, however, did not do anything suspicious.
She carried out the tasks she had in mind seriously.
Carter frowned unwittingly. His gaze lingered on his phone screen for a while before he finally looked away.
Looking up, he saw Camille walking toward him.
Carter, there's something I'd like to discuss with you, Camille said with a stern expression.
Carter could roughly guess what Camille wanted to discuss with him. He portrayed an indifferent mannerism as he followed Camille into the living room and sat on the sofa.
Do you wish to discuss Shirley? Carter asked directly.
As for Ada, who had been following Carter's every move, her ears perked up when she heard this. She was carefully crouching behind the wall and listening intently when Camille spoke.
"Carter, what do you have in mind? What are your plans for Shirley? I know it's still quite a while before she gives birth, but it's really not that far off. The child should not be labeled illegitimate at birth.
My child will certainly not be illegitimate. I'll find a suitable opportunity to give him legal status."""
'What!'
Ada's nails crunched into the diatom mud wall upon hearing this.
'Does he really intend to give Shirley a legal status?'
'There can only be one person who could hold the position of Mrs. Gray and Viscountess.'
'If Carter offers Shirley the official title, my would be in jeopardy! '
At the thought of this, Ada was not only unsettled but also enraged.
How will you deal with Ada then? The Logan family may not be quite as influential as the Gray family in St. Piaf, but if they were to blow this issue out of proportion, it could affect your reputation to some extent, Camille considered this point.
Carter pondered for a moment, then replied, "I never took that woman seriously. If it wasn't to ensure that the matter proceeded smoothly, I wouldn't have agreed to marry a woman like her."
He spoke indifferently, contempt and arrogance permeating from his dark eyes.
If the Logan family believes they can affect me by stirring trouble with us, let them. I never do anything I'm uncertain of.
That's great, Camille breathed a sigh of relief but frowned once again. "Shirley's face is disfigured now, and I worry she might feel depressed about it. I t won't be good for a pregnant woman.
"Further, she's only a few weeks into her pregnancy. In the coming months, her physical state will worsen.
A pregnant woman being confined to a permanent sedentary lifestyle might experience adverse effects on both her well-being and the health of the baby in her womb."""
Camille shared her thoughts worriedly.
Ada felt a little more at ease after hearing this. She would be glad if Shirley could not keep well.
In the next second, however, she heard Carter's unhurried response. "Don't worry, her legs and face will heal soon."
Camille's face lit up with joy. "Is that true? Can her face and legs really recover?"
Carter confirmed with a nod. "It may not be possible if it was anyone else, but it can be done if it's Shirley's brother."
Married by Mistake: Mr. Whitman's Sinner Wife chapter 1846
Is it that young man named Adam?
Yes, that's him. He won't let Shirley look like this for long. He'll heal her in the shortest possible time to make her look like the woman she once was.
Carter was certain of this.
Camille felt relieved by his words. "Then I can anticipate my grandchild's birth in peace."
She smiled and unwittingly let out a soft sigh.
"In fact, if she hadn't left without a word years ago, the two of you would have been married, and maybe you'd have had two or three children by now. I
don't know what she was thinking back then."
Carter listened to Camille's mutterings; he shared similar questions in his mind and a trace of dissatisfaction in his heart.
However, he did not say anything else.
If he could hold onto her now, he could make up for the loss.
Ada, who had been listening to the entire conversation, soon after returned to her room angrily and gave a call to her mother.
Having heard the scenario, Ada's mother pondered for a moment, then immediately came up with an idea.
After listening to her mother's idea, Ada knew that it was a completely feasible idea, but she was hesitant to do it. She feared that Carter would learn about it in the future, and she would regret it then.
Upon reflection, though, her mother was right. The fewer the people who knew about it, the better.
That was why she would have to do it herself!
In the following days, Shirley devoted her time to studying the anti-toxoid test reagent daily.
However, every time she discovered Adam and Cathy's circumstances, Carter would casually dismiss the topic.
Shirley was very worried about them, but she also knew that the development of the anti-toxoid test reagent could not be put off any further.
Back then, when she stayed at home, Adam had already admonished her sternly.
He had told her that Madeline had not regained her consciousness following the fourth stage of the poison.
If Madeline remained unconscious for much longer, her body would likely suffer further harm.
Shirley had already decided what to do when she gave Adam the formula for the anti-toxoid test reagent.
She had to turn back.
She must not make the same mistakes again. This morning, Shirley woke up as usual.
Ada, as usual, stood at a side with a forced smile on her face as she instructed the servants to help Shirley get out of bed.
After breakfast, Ada had even thoughtfully pushed Shirley toward the laboratory.
On the way, Ada, seemingly unable to resist it, asked Shirley, "Shirley, can I ask you a question?"
Shirley was not in the mood to beat around the bush with Ada, so Shirley bluntly said, "Tell me whatever you want to say. There's no point in chatting."
The corners of Ada's lips twitched with dissatisfaction, then she chuckled and asked, "You actually love Carter a lot, don't you?"
Shirley was taken aback by Ada's question. After a moment of bewilderment, Shirley replied, "This is a personal matter. I do not need to share it with you."
Although Shirley's response was indifferent, Ada was not bothered by it; Ada smiled to herself instead.
At the laboratory entrance, Shirley went in alone; Ada was forbidden to enter.
Ada stood at the entrance, watching the laboratory doors closed slowly, then her lips curled into a triumphant grin. "Shirley, I know you're very much in love with Carter. As I've said, I won't allow myself to be mistreated like this. Just you wait. Something will happen soon, and you will break."
Married by Mistake: Mr. Whitman's Sinner Wife chapter 1847
The anomaly in Ada went unnoticed by Shirley, whose thoughts were focused on developing the anti
#NAME?
Adam and Cathy had stayed at the Gray Villa for several days now. Their movements were restricted to the small house where they lived.
Despite having all of their daily needs provided appropriately, they did not feel comfortable.
Adam's only thought was to get Shirley out of this place. He was worried about Shirley's condition.
Furthermore, he also confirmed his discovery that Carter posed a certain degree of danger.
At this moment, a servant delivered their breakfast, and Adam learned from the servant that Carter was scheduled to go out later.
It seemed to be a good opportunity to Adam, but Cathy was somewhat hesitant.
Actually, Adam, your sister had intended to stay back then to work on the anti-toxoid test reagent. Even if you decided to take her now, I'm not sure she'll be willing to go.
Adam's expression was solemn. "If she stays here, something's bound to happen sooner or later."
What do you mean by that? Cathy did not quite understand. "It seems to me that Carter cares a lot about your sister. Are you worried about that woman named Ada instead?"
Yes, her.
Adam answered honestly, beset by worry.
"Shirley turned out like this now because of that woman, and Carter has done nothing about it.
Doesn't that suggest his tacit approval for Ada harming Shirley? I don't trust Carter, and I cannot allow Shirley to have a ticking time bomb by her side."
As soon as Adam's voice fell away, the transparent glass door in front of them swung open.
The person who walked in was none other than Ada. Adam clenched his fists at the sight of Ada.
Cathy, worried that Adam would act out of anger, tried to dismiss Ada quickly.
What are you doing here? You're not welcome here. We don't want to see such a venomously evil woman like you either.
Ada chuckled disapprovingly at Cathy's words.
Prancing her way to the sofa, Ada sat down ostentatiously as the hostess. She then threw a glance at Cathy and spoke in a sarcastic tone.
The things you've said are truly ridiculous. I'm married to Carter, which makes me the family's official hostess. The entire villa is mine, and I can g o anywhere I like. Who are the two of you, as outsiders, to interfere?
Oh, I see. Cathy went along with Ada's words. " Well, the noble Mrs. Gray, since you put it that way, please let us two outsiders out of your house immediately so as not to taint your lofty facade."
." Ada, momentarily stunned by those words, was about to speak again when Adam scoffed.
Ada's face darkened as she glared at Adam with extreme displeasure. "What are you laughing at?"
Hah. Adam's scornful gaze fell on Ada's face. " I'm laughing at Cathy's innocence. She doesn't realize that you're nothing more than a title
without the actual authority attached to the position of Mrs. Gray."
Ada's expression fell. "Adam, you..."
Could it be that I'm mistaken? You understand better than anyone else that Carter has never taken you seriously. Just like air, you are transparent in his eyes.
If Carter had even the slightest affection for you, my sister wouldn't be here today.
Stop speaking nonsense! Ada stood up furiously. "Carter doesn't care about that shameless sister of yours. It was Shirley, that vile woman, who seduced Carter! "
You're the one spewing nonsense, you cruel, vile woman! Ask yourself, why you did those things to Shirley? It's because you felt threatened by her, and the reason you feel that way lies in the depth of your heart!
You... Ada's face flushed with anger at Adam's words.
Adam was right. What he said was all true!
Married by Mistake: Mr. Whitman's Sinner Wife chapter 1848
She had done all that because she felt that Carter cared for Shirley. She realized that Shirley was a threat to her, so she paid someone to kidnap Shirley, who was locked up at Jeremy's old villa at the time.
Using Madeline's name, Ada had ruined Shirley's face and injured her leg. Consequently, Shirley had been hit by a car in her attempt to escape, which led to her disabled legs.
The whole thing began because of her jealousy!
Just you wait, Adam. You're as annoying as your sister Shirley! Ada warned furiously, the humiliation she felt fuelling her rage.
Soon, I'll also have you know the price you'd paid in defying me!
"Don't try to validate your presence here. We have no time to defy you. You're the one who keeps
finding fault with us, Adam retorted coldly, leaving Ada no room to argue."
Ada had originally come by to vent her anger at Shirley's brother Adam since Ada could not blatantly direct it at Shirley. However, she had not expected to be angered further.
At the sight of Adam and Cathy ignoring her, Ada gritted her teeth and glared at them irately.
Just you wait!
Ada uttered, then turned around and stomped out irritably.
Feeling worried, Cathy glanced outside. "Adam, something feels off. Is that woman planning to do something to us?"
Adam looked coldly in the direction where Ada had gone before turning sideways to face Cathy.
"You're right, she gave me an odd feeling as well. But don't worry. Whatever happens, I'll protect you.
Adam smiled slightly as he made her a sincere promise.
Cathy smiled knowingly. She knew that Adam would certainly protect her even without a promise.
Nevertheless, her mind was awhirl with thoughts. The fact that Carter truly cared for Shirley certainly meant he would not harm them; he certainly would not condone any outrageous behavior from Ada in his villa either.
However, although Cathy and Adam were accurate in their speculations, they had underestimated how vicious Ada and her mother could be.
After her confrontation with Cathy and Adam, the enraged Ada returned to her room.
She had been keeping a close eye on the clock all this time. Finally, it was time for Carter and Camille to leave the house.
She knew that the villa was equipped with plenty of surveillance cameras. Over the past two days, she had paid close attention to them so that she could essentially avoid them, allowing her to commit her perfect crime.
The ideal time, however, was after dark. It would be the most appropriate time to begin her plan. Ada had also decided to make Shirley her best time witness.
Shirley had stayed in the laboratory for the entire day. As night fell, she finally obtained a satisfactory result.
As she eyed the icy blue liquid in the transparent vial, a smile of relief gradually appeared on her face.
She sealed the anti-toxoid test reagent properly,
placed it into her pocket, and left the laboratory.
As soon as she exited the laboratory entrance, Shirley saw Ada waiting by the door.
Ada seemed impatient. Evidently, she had given in to Shirley only because of Carter.
Shirley, not giving it much thought now, allowed Ada to push her into the living room.
Where's Carter now?"" Shirley did not want to delay a single second. She was eager to get the anti- toxoid test reagent out."
Indifferent, Ada rolled her eyes. "Carter went out." 'Carter had gone out?'
Shirley thought that this could be her chance.
Then hurry up and take me to my brother's place.
Married by Mistake: Mr. Whitman's Sinner Wife chapter 1849
Ada was merely looking for an excuse to bring Shirley over to Adam and Cathy's place.
Unexpectedly, Shirley had initiated the visit instead.
Ada was secretly delighted but pretended to be in a tough spot.
Shirley, you saw how it went last time. I brought you to look for your brother, and Carter found out about it. I don't intend to break Carter's order again.
But Carter had also asked you to respect all of my needs while taking care of me. I'd like to see my brother right now. Are you able to refuse me?
In response to those words, Ada feigned a look of dissatisfaction, pretending to compromise with a conflicted expression.
Then you better have a conscience, Shirley. If Carter comes home and discovers that I brought you to see your brother, you must explain to him that you compelled me to take you.
Shirley, unaware that this was part of Ada's strategy to avoid being implicated, simply replied, " Sure. I'll accept full responsibility."
Remember your words, Ada reminded. She snickered to herself as she pushed Shirley's wheelchair.
Although the small house and the garden were not far apart, it would take a minute or two to walk there.
On the way, Shirley noticed a pungent burning odor that seemed to be getting nearer.
Just as she was wondering what was burning, Ada let out a startled cry behind her.
Why are there flames ahead?
Shirley followed Ada's gaze when she heard her.
Under the illumination of the street lights, they could see that it was no mere fire—thick billows of smoke drifted up into the sky.
A sudden realization struck Shirley. "That's where Adam and Cathy are staying now!"
She moved her wheelchair along quickly as she spoke. When she arrived, however, the modern- looking structure was already engulfed in flames.
Shirley widened her eyes in disbelief. "Adam! Cathy!
She yelled out in the direction of the house but there was no response.
Shirley, unbothered by the danger, sped forward, wanting to go inside when her wheelchair hit something hard, and she suddenly lost her balance.
Shirley fell heavily onto the ground with a loud thud.
She struggled to stand up, but there was no strength or sensation in her legs.
Shirley watched the flames continue to burn and grow, her eyes turning red as if they were on fire themselves.
Addy! Addy!
Clutching her trembling hands, she shouted for Adam repeatedly.
"Cathy...”
Shirley was at a loss as to what to do. She could only watch as the fire slowly burned the house, disintegrating all the hopes she had in her eyes.
Someone! Put out the fire! Quickly"" Ada pretended to shout for the servants' help."
When the servants heard her, they rushed over in
shock, then immediately retrieved fire extinguishers and called the fire department.
Carter and Camille had been returning home together. Their car had barely approached the villa's gate when they saw a fire truck parked at the main entrance.
Carter told his chauffeur to speed up. As soon as he stepped out of the car, he ran toward the commotion.
From a distance, he saw a dispirited Shirley seated in her wheelchair as if her soul had been drained.
When Carter intended to head over to understand the situation, he saw the medical staff passing by, carrying two stretchers.
The two stretchers clearly had two people lying on them, but they were both covered with a white cloth.
In the crowd, Ada, noticing Carter's return, immediately put on a frightened expression and ran over to him with tears in her eyes.
Carter, it was terrifying just now. I have no idea what started this fire to start all of the sudden. I called for help as soon as I discovered it, but it was already too late...
Married by Mistake: Mr. Whitman's Sinner Wife chapter 1850
Ada let out a sigh of resignation.
Carter, I know I tend to be willful and wayward, but I'm not that heartless and cold-blooded. You should go and comfort Ms. Brown. She must be feeling especially...
Without waiting for Ada to finish her sentence, Carter left her and walked straight to Shirley.
Carter glanced sideways at the charred house which had been burnt down to its frame. His eyebrows drew tight as the burning smell hit his nostrils.
He walked up to Shirley, lowered his body slightly, and was about to speak when Shirley raised a hand unexpectedly and slapped him.
Carter was dumbfounded. His face remained sideways, seemingly did not react, and he stood motionless.
Ada and the servants nearby had witnessed the entire scene, and all of them were shocked.
Carter held the position as the honorable Viscount of St. Piaf; he carried with him the blood of royalty.
Ever since he was a child, who would have dared to move a single strand of his hair?
Presently, this woman who was seated in a wheelchair had actually dared to hit Carter, and she had hit Carter's face.
Carter's face was so delicate that even touching it was considered blasphemy, let alone hitting it.
However, these were no longer within Shirley's consideration. Ever since she got over him, she had no intention of becoming his pawn ever again, always cautious around him—an obedient pawn who carried out his every order without dignity or self-esteem.
Shirley's eyes were red as she glared at Carter, who wore a dark expression on his face.
You killed my brother and Cathy. I'll make certain that you'll pay for this, Carter Gray!
Shirley bitterly spat out every word through gritted teeth, expressing her determination.
Carter turned his face over, frowning as he met Shirley's gaze which burned with hostility and rage.
What do their deaths have anything to do with me? Shirley, has the excessive sadness affected your brain?
"Do you really have nothing to do with it? Carter, how can you act like it's none of your business?
Would this have happened if you hadn't brought Adam and Cathy here? Would they have died in the fire if you hadn't confined them to this house?! "
Shirley's questioning and reproach left Carter momentarily speechless, unable to refute.
Everyone thought Carter would fly into a terrible rage. Ada was also looking forward to it. However, they only witnessed Carter's kind tone as he explained.
There's something very wrong about this fire. It's definitely arson. I'll investigate it thoroughly.
It was certainly the result of a human act, and you are the murderer, Shirley said furiously, glaring at him. She turned her wheelchair around suddenly and headed for the main door.
Carter was left in a daze after being scolded and accused by Shirley.
When he noticed that the servants were looking at him, his gaze darkened, and before he spoke, the servants avoided his gaze in a hurry.
Ada took this opportunity to leave with everyone else in case Carter noticed anything was amiss.
Carter walked over to the burnt ruins after everyone had left. He could not believe this was an accident.
A thought also came to his mind at that moment. Now that Adam was dead, there would be no one who could heal Shirley's face and legs.
With a grave expression and a foul mood, he went back into the house.
He immediately went to look for Shirley but discovered that she was not in her room.
He asked all the servants, but they neither saw nor knew where she had gone after she left the scene earlier.
Carter had been suppressing his anger all this while, but he was unable to hold it in for much longer.
As he was about to go out in search of Shirley, Ada ran over frantically.
Carter, this is bad.