When His Mask Cracks novel Chapter 9

Seeing how Doria readily admitted it, Bernice's expression turned grim. Initially, Bernice pondered if there might be a misunderstanding, but now everything seemed to align with Darlene's account.

Besides hooking up with another woman soon after the divorce, Andrew's harsh treatment toward her family deeply upset her.

Bernice coldly snapped, "I don't care what the relationship between you two is, but you have to apologize to Favian. Because of our history together, I'll overlook the rest."

Bernice's cold demeanor left Andrew disheartened. With a self-deprecating smile, he retorted, "So that's how you see me? Before you demand an apology, perhaps you should find out what they did first."

Andrew's response made Bernice pause. She knew Darlene's character and suspected there was more to the story. Blocking Andrew's path, Bernice called Darlene in front of him.

Initially hesitant, Darlene eventually divulged upon learning of Andrew's presence, admitting to attempting to snatch his emerald pendant necklace.

Even though Darlene downplayed the event, Bernice had pretty much guessed what had happened. She felt caught in a dilemma.

The necklace was an engagement token from Andrew's parents, and it was the only keepsake from his mother as well. It carried a lot of sentimental value for him.

"My mother and Favian were unaware of the necklace's importance to you. Furthermore, it remains in possession. Regardless of the specifics, resorting to violence, especially against elders, is unwarranted."

Although Bernice acknowledged her mother's wrongdoing, she couldn't shake off the discomfort. While Andrew emerged unscathed, Darlene had been the victim of an unprovoked attack, a fact that weighed heavily on Bernice's mind.

Doria had heard enough. "If we're ignoring the facts, then what else is there to say? Your family is a mess—disrespectful, thieving, and now audaciously demanding explanations? Andrew is mine now. Show some self-respect and leave us alone."

Doria showed no restraint with her words, exuding a cold and intimidating air that put Bernice in her place.

"Yours? It appears you haven't known each other for long, so it might be premature to make such declarations. Judging by your attire and demeanor, you seem to come from a respectable background. I'd suggest carefully considering your decision before proceeding. The man you're involved with may not be as straightforward as he seems."

For three years, Andrew had presented himself to Bernice as a family-oriented and composed individual with no apparent connections. To her, he seemed unremarkable and lacking in resolve.

Recent events, however, unveiled Andrew's conniving and manipulative nature, traits previously unbeknownst to Bernice.

"Let's go, honey. It's not worth arguing with someone like her."

Ignoring Bernice, Doria held Andrew's arm and proceeded into the yard.

As they brushed past Bernice, a flash of white caught her eye—a marriage certificate peeking from Doria's pocket. Bernice's keen eye caught Andrew's name.

Andrew had actually married that woman! Bernice's breath hitched as she struggled to process reality.

Bernice had just divorced Andrew, and in no time at all, he had gotten married to another woman—one who was undeniably more attractive than her!

What was happening? Was she at fault? Had she failed to recognize Andrew's good?

Bernice had only briefly entertained those thoughts, quickly dismissing them. No, she didn't regret divorcing Andrew. What upset her was Andrew swiftly finding another woman right after their divorce. She felt betrayed and humiliated by his actions.

As the door closed behind Bernice, she clenched her teeth, standing there briefly before leaving.

"Was my acting good? Anyway, if she bothers you again, call me. Partners have each other's backs."

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