How the Ice King Became my Doting Billionaire Husband

Adelaide hung her head slightly, her mind crystal clear on one thing – Jethro was the lifeblood of the Gallagher family. With Jethro injured like this, even though Barclay was from the Clark family, her parents would seek vengeance.

But she never expected they'd send her to demand compensation.

Seeing Adelaide silent, Violet took her hand, speaking with a patience she rarely showed, “Adelaide, times have changed. The Gallaghers are going through rough patches. You need to confront that Barclay. Remember, ask for a hefty sum. Only then can we have a shot at a decent life. When you're back, I'll make your favorite – chicken soup.” NôvelDrama.Org © 2024.

“Mom, don't worry. I’ll handle it,” Adelaide replied, her voice firm yet underlined with a chilling resolve.

She had once longed for such warmth, thinking her parents’ occasional kindness meant love. But those days were far behind her. Any compensation she got wouldn't see its way to the Gallaghers.

Violet’s seemingly affectionate grip on Adelaide’s hand came with a suggestion, “No rush this moment. Sit down, have a glass of water, and rest a bit before you go.”

Adelaide couldn't help but scoff internally. It was already 8 PM, and she half-expected her mother to suggest waiting until tomorrow. Yet, her mother's cold-heartedness surprised even her.

Sending her off so late to meet a man, seemingly indifferent to what might happen to her.

Sitting down, Adelaide was offered a cup of lukewarm water by Violet, who then sliced an apple, placing it beside Adelaide with a semblance of concern.

Looking at Jethro with genuine worry, Adelaide whispered, “You’ve been through so much, little brother.”

Jethro, unable to speak, could only grunt in response.

Adelaide softly assured, “Don’t worry. I’ll take good care of you and make sure Barclay pays up.”

His grunts grew more intense, likely trying to convey that Barclay wasn’t the one who hurt him.

Violet quickly intervened, “Enough, don’t distress your brother further. He needs surgery. Go find Barclay, then see if you can get in touch with some reputable doctors.”

“Alright.”

As Adelaide obediently left the room, a smirk played at the corners of her mouth. The Gallaghers thought they needed her, and amusingly, she found them useful too. Without this bond to her brother, returning wouldn’t have been as straightforward.

Instead of seeking Barclay in person, Adelaide opted for a phone call. Barclay, deeply engrossed in a video game at Rosefrost University, paused upon seeing her call but decided to finish his game first.

There was a time when Barclay cherished Adelaide’s gentle soul, seeing her as his redemption. But the recent slew of accusations and complaints had him dreading her calls.

Adelaide sensed the shift in Barclay but remained patient. Men, she mused, were like fish needing to be fed occasionally to stay close. She was confident in reclaiming their admiration upon her return.

However, this was the first time Barclay hadn’t picked up her call, which unsettled her.

After his game, Barclay took a deep breath, bracing himself before returning Adelaide’s call.

The moment she answered, Adelaide’s voice broke through in a tearful plea, “Barclay.”