That night, Hannah had a wonderful dream. When she woke, a faint smile still lingered on her lips. 

The thought of soon being free from this charade of a respectful marriage, plus the prospect of seeing that face so eerily like Chace’s every day–it lightened her mood considerably. She found herself wishing time would hurry up, that the mandatory “cooling–off period” would fly by. 

Downstairs, the housekeeper had breakfast ready. Hannah had just finished eating and was heading back upstairs to pack when she heard commotion in the entryway. Looking up, she saw Kaden walking in with Phoebe beside him, followed by several security staff carrying luggage. 

Kaden wore an impeccably tailored black suit that accentuated his broad shoulders and long legs, his demeanor cold and aristocratic. Phoebe was in a white sundress, her long hair flowing over her shoulders, a sweet smile on her face as she clung to Kaden’s arm. They looked perfect together–the 

handsome man and beautiful woman, a match made in heaven. 

Kaden directed the security team to bring in the luggage, then turned to Hannah. “Phoebe’s been having nightmares lately. She only feels safe when I’m around, so I’ve brought her to stay with us for 

a while.” 

He reached into his pocket and pulled out an elegant gift box, offering it to Hannah. “This is a necklace I had someone bid on at Sotheby’s. Consider it… compensation.” 

Hannah glanced at the box but gently pushed it back without taking it. “No need for compensation. The house has plenty of rooms.” 

Kaden looked surprised. “You’re not angry?” 

Hannah was even more surprised by his question. “Why would I be? In a month’s time, she’d be 

moving in anyway.” 

Kaden froze, clearly not understanding her meaning. 

What did she mean by “in a month’s time“? 

Before he could ask, Phoebe jumped in. With a smug smile and challenging tone, she said, “Well, thank you then, Miss Paine.” 

She never called Hannah “sister–in–law,” refusing to acknowledge her position. 

TL–To–attan are Contract. When Regret Comes Too Late 

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Chapter 2 

Five years ago, when Hannah first married into the Humphrey family, Phoebe had stormed into their wedding suite with security guards and trashed everything. Red–eyed like a wounded animal, she’d screamed hysterically: “What right do you have to take my brother from me?” 

Somehow Kaden had calmed her down, and she hadn’t caused such scenes since. Perhaps because regardless of his marriage, Kaden’s devotion to Phoebe never diminished. 

He still accompanied her shopping, comforted her to sleep, and even spent nights by her bedside when she was sick. His love for her remained constant while his wife might as well have been 

invisible. 

“Kaden, didn’t you promise to take me to the theme park after we moved my things?” Phoebe tugged at his arm, her voice honey–sweet. 

Kaden looked down at her, his eyes so tender they could melt ice. “Of course. We’ll go soon.” 

He looked back up at Hannah, seeming to want to say something. 

Hannah just smiled gently. “You two go ahead. Just let me know if you’ll be back for dinner, and I’ll have the staff prepare.” 

Phoebe’s lips curled into a smirk. “How thoughtful of you, Miss Paine.” 

Hannah caught the provocation and smugness in her tone but didn’t react, just politely nodded and returned to her room. 

Hannah spent the entire day packing. By the time everything was in order, night had fallen. 

Kaden and Phoebe hadn’t returned. Hannah showered, changed into pajamas, and was nearly asleep when voices drifted in from outside her door. 

“Please stay with me tonight, Kaden. I’m scared alone.” Phoebe’s voice had that wheedling quality she used when coaxing him. 

“Phoebe, my wife is still here. It wouldn’t be appropriate.” Kaden’s voice remained gentle but carried a hint of resignation. 

“What’s inappropriate about it? You love me, I love you–Hannah’s just for show anyway.” 

Hannah’s fingers curled slightly, but she remained still, eyes closed, pretending not to hear. 

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Chapter 2 

Outside, after a moment of silence, Kaden spoke softly: “Phoebe, I can care for you as I always have and keep you first in my heart, but nothing more. I’m still legally married, and if something happened between us, it would damage your reputation. Just know that I’ll always love you.” 

“Then don’t touch her tonight.” Phoebe’s tone turned possessive. 

Kaden said something in response, but too quietly for Hannah to hear. 

A moment later, the bedroom door opened softly. 

Kaden entered, his gaze falling on the suitcases by the bed with surprise. “What’s with all the luggage?” 

Hannah had intended to tell him the truth, but remembering how he’d said she could make all decisions without consulting him–he didn’t even know about the divorce yet–was there any point explaining her move to California? 

So she lied: “Just seasonal cleaning.” 

Kaden nodded without further questions and went into the bathroom. 

When he emerged, he wore only a towel wrapped around his waist, water droplets trailing down his chest to his toned abs. 

He approached the bed and leaned down to kiss her lips. 

Hannah pushed him away, startled. “Didn’t your sister tell you not to touch me?” 

Kaden stiffened. “You heard that?” 

Hannah nodded. 

After a moment’s silence, Kaden changed the subject rather than answering her. “I want you. Is that 

okay?” 

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