A Second Chance at Forever (Eleanor and Bernard) novel Chapter 1400

In Yates' mind, Eleanor had always been the epitome of gentleness. It was the first time he'd seen her fly off the handle, and for a fleeting moment, his resolve wavered. But as quickly as it came, it passed. "You and Bernard are all wrong for each other."

Eleanor's lips curled into a scornful smile, the disdain spreading like a stain. "Bernard and I have been through thick and thin for over a decade. We've faced life and death together, weathered every hardship. How come we're all wrong just because you say so?"

Yates shot back, "I made a deal with Bernard. Break up with you, and he walks free. He didn't hesitate to leave you for his freedom. Tell me, how is a man who can ditch you at the drop of a hat right for you?"

Eleanor scoffed, "If you hadn't trapped him, hadn't used my unborn child as a bargaining chip, would a man, alone and mired in trouble, ever choose to leave me?"

Bernard's so-called 'choice' wasn't a true reflection of their relationship but a result of Yates' relentless pressure. With no other option, he had to compromise first and then plan to strike back with vengeance.

A man usually decisive in action, Bernard bent in the face of the enemy to protect her and their child. That alone proved his worth as a husband and father. No one was better suited than he.

But Yates wouldn't understand. "If it were me, no matter the threat, I wouldn't choose to break up. So, in my eyes, Bernard doesn't love you enough."

A sardonic laugh almost escaped Eleanor's eyes. "And you? To get Pauline, you muscled in on her and her high school sweetheart, claimed her by force, yet never made her your wife. Is that love?"

Yates hadn't expected such audacity. Angered, he retorted, "What happened between your grandmother and me is none of your business!"

As Yates flared up, Peterson stepped in, trying to calm Eleanor but was briskly pushed aside. "Your matters are not for me to meddle in, just as mine are not for you!"

Yates' eyes blazed with resentment as he locked gazes with Eleanor's equally indignant stare. "Remember, Eleanor, you are my granddaughter. We are family."

Eleanor's derision didn't wane. "You restrict freedom, threaten my child, and lie to my face, all for your selfish gains. What kind of grandfather does that make you? What kind of family are we?"

Yates' face darkened visibly, his fist clenching on the countertop, veins bulging with fury.