The man was outraged, about to speak, but Noelle held him back, crying, “Stop! Elizabeth is right. I shouldn’t have imagined things about Jackson. It was my own choice. I love without expecting anything in return.”
The man nearly cried, “Noelle, you’re too noble. Jackson doesn’t deserve you.”
Jackson spoke slowly, “Elizabeth is right. She is my only wife—always has been and always will be. Please leave and stop spreading nonsense.”
His hand was strong and his voice firm, but I noticed his arm tremble slightly. His look at Noelle showed a faint hint of confusion.
My heart ached like it had been pierced by a needle. Even though I’d decided to leave, the pain stayed. Suddenly, the crystal chandelier above crashed down with a loud noise. Screams filled the air.
I closed my eyes instinctively. Jackson pushed me away with all his strength, then darted toward Noelle.
The chandelier shattered beside me, cutting my arms and cheeks with glass. Through the pain, I could still see in the distance.
Jackson shielded Noelle under him as the chandelier hit his back. Noelle cried, still shaken, while people nearby started talking.