Heartstrings on Fire novel Chapter 1229

Maggie asked Lucas to keep an eye on Lily while she stepped out. It was with a heavy heart that she did so, but her frustration overwhelmed her sorrow. The thought of Susan manipulating the kids was something Maggie couldn't stomach. She had initially left to confront Susan about it. But halfway there, Maggie realized arguing would probably not change Susan's mind. So she decided to have a word with Jack instead.

As fate would have it, she hadn't gone far when she bumped into Jack coming down the hallway. Every time Jack saw Maggie, his face would contort with a mix of emotions, becoming noticeably more somber. The Jack standing before her was hardly the man she once knew. Over the years, he had grown significantly more reserved.

Maggie said, “I was actually looking for you. We need to talk.” Jack replied, “That’s funny, I was just looking for you too. I've got something to tell you.” They locked eyes, each hesitating for a moment before they simultaneously said, “You go first.” Then, another silence. Finally, Maggie broke it, “No, you first.”

Jack didn’t hesitate this time. “I didn’t know she asked you to come today. I didn’t want to intrude on your life.” He looked genuinely apologetic. Maggie responded, “I knew that. I only came to check on Lily.” Jack added, “I’ll make sure she doesn’t bother you in the future.”

Maggie sighed, “Do you even know what Susan is up to?” “How could I not?” Jack admitted. “As long as you know. I just hope you won’t let her manipulate the situation this time,” Maggie said, her tone firm. Jack stayed silent for a moment, then asked, “So, what did you want to talk about?”

Maggie remembered her original intention, “Regardless of what happens between you and Susan, I think you need to think about Lily’s future. I might be an outsider, but even I can’t stand by and watch Susan’s attitude towards her.” Jack frowned slightly. Maggie continued, “You’re well aware of Lily’s health issues, and you’ve seen how Susan neglects them. If this continues, I dread to think of the consequences.”

Jack assured her, “You don’t need to worry about that. I’ll take Lily with me tonight. I have custody, and I’ll take good care of her.” Hearing this, Maggie felt somewhat relieved. She thought for a moment and decided not to bring up Susan’s manipulation. That would only play into Susan’s hands. Wasn’t that what Susan wanted? For her to bring it up with Jack?

“I’ve said what I needed to,” Maggie finally spoke, “Lily is a bright kid, Jack. I truly hope she doesn’t end up like Susan.”

“Maggie, I’ve always considered you a friend. Are you here to drive a wedge between my daughter and me?” Susan’s voice echoed down the hallway. She had been descending the stairs, likely having overheard their entire conversation. But Maggie wasn’t fazed. She would have said the same thing in Susan’s presence. Susan approached with a stormy demeanor, heading straight for Maggie.