Wings of Broken Time by Alina Das 69

Wings of Broken Time by Alina Das 69 Summary

In this chapter, Thatch interrupts a tense moment between Haskell and Valeria, reminding Valeria to hold back during their conversation. Despite her playful defiance, she complies. Thatch then questions Haskell about his decision to marry, and Haskell firmly states that he intends to marry the daughter of the Judson family, not Honora, who is not their daughter. Thatch and Draven share a subtle, satisfied look, believing Haskell’s engagement to a country girl will ruin him.

The conversation shifts to an incident where Haskell had Crispin discipline Valeria for her bluntness. Thatch disapproves of the harsh punishment, emphasizing that Valeria, though not his biological daughter, is part of their family and deserves respect. He demands Haskell apologize to her and fires Crispin for striking a lady of the Palmer family. Valeria smugly demands an apology from Haskell, who remains silent and tense, hinting at deeper resentment.

Haskell reminds his father that he was crippled while saving Valeria but she continues to disrespect him, implying she needs to be taught a lesson. Thatch brushes off the seriousness, suggesting Haskell has become too sensitive since the accident and even jokes about needing a therapist. He pressures Haskell to apologize to Valeria, who confidently approaches him, demanding sincerity.

However, as Valeria moves closer, Haskell quietly utters “Crispin,” prompting Crispin to suddenly grab Valeria and slap her sharply across the cheek. This unexpected act leaves the chapter on a tense and dramatic note.

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Chapter 69

“Valeria,” Thatch interrupted with a mock severity in his voice, “Haskell and I are having a conversation. You might want to hold back a little.”

Valeria stuck out her tongue in playful defiance but quickly muttered, “Okay.”

It was a half-hearted scolding, clearly meant more as a shield than a reprimand.

Thatch turned back to Haskell, his tone more serious now. “Are you absolutely certain you want to marry this girl?”

Haskell’s eyes met his father’s steadily. “Yes, I am. My engagement was always intended for the daughter of the Judson family. Since Honora is not their daughter, naturally, I will not marry her.”

Thatch exchanged a barely noticeable, satisfied glance with Draven before nodding in approval. “Very well. Since you’ve made your choice, we’ll attend the welcome reception tomorrow night to show our support.”

Draven’s lips curled into a faint, secretive smile. A cripple marrying a worthless country girl—Haskell was finished, in their eyes.

“By the way,” Thatch added casually, “Valeria told me she misspoke yesterday, and you had Crispin discipline her?”

Haskell hadn’t expected his father to bring up that incident. “Yes. Is there a problem? Do you think it was inappropriate for me to teach Valeria some manners?”

Thatch’s displeasure was evident. “Valeria is your sister, a young lady of the Palmer family. She was just being blunt. There was no need to be so harsh.”

“Dad, don’t forget she’s the goddaughter you took in for Draven’s sake, not your biological daughter,” Haskell reminded him sharply.

Valeria’s smile faded instantly.

Thatch’s face darkened. “She may not be my biological daughter, but she saved Draven’s life and grew up with him. She’s called me ‘Dad’ for years, and I consider her my own. It was wrong of you to have Crispin punish her. You will apologize to her now. As for Crispin, an assistant who dares to strike a lady of this family has broken the rules. For the sake of safety, I think it’s best he no longer works for you.”

Valeria shot Haskell a smug look. “Apologize, Haskell, and I’ll forgive you.”

Crispin glanced nervously at his master, uncertain of what would come next.

Haskell’s eyes darkened as he fixed his gaze on his father. After a long pause, he spoke quietly but firmly. “Dad, I was crippled while saving Valeria. Yet she keeps saying things in my presence that are deeply disrespectful. Whether she means it or not, if she isn’t taught a lesson, she’ll never learn.”

—

“Haskell, how could you think I was being intentional?” Valeria pouted, her voice laced with innocence.

Thatch’s brow creased with impatience. “Valeria has always been outspoken. Why are you making such a big deal out of it? Just apologize to her. It seems Valeria was right—you’ve become far too sensitive since the accident. Maybe, besides doctors for your legs, we need to hire a therapist for your mind.”

Haskell stared at his father, who was clearly determined to force an apology. After a long silence, a humorless smile touched his lips. “Valeria, come here.”

Seeing him give in, Valeria strutted over confidently. “Make sure it’s a sincere apology, Haskell, or I won’t accept it.”

But as she moved closer, she caught Haskell mutter a single word under his breath: “Crispin.”

Before she could react, Crispin seized her wrist, yanked her forward, and delivered a sharp slap across her cheek.

Chapter 70

Conclusion

The tension between Valeria and Haskell reaches a boiling point in this chapter, revealing the complex layers of their relationship. Despite the playful banter and protective instincts, underlying resentments and misunderstandings simmer, especially in the wake of Haskell’s injury and Valeria’s bluntness. Thatch’s intervention highlights the fragile balance of family loyalty and discipline, underscoring the emotional stakes each character grapples with. The chapter poignantly captures the struggle between affection and frustration, as well as the challenge of navigating respect within a fractured family dynamic.

As the chapter closes on a shocking and painful moment, the emotional weight lingers, leaving the characters—and readers—caught in a moment of unresolved conflict. The interplay of power, vulnerability, and unspoken feelings sets the stage for deeper exploration of forgiveness and understanding. Though the bonds between them are tested, there remains an undercurrent of care and connection that hints at the possibility of healing beyond the pain.

What to Expect in Next Chapter?

The tension that has been simmering beneath the surface is about to reach a boiling point, and the next chapter promises to delve deeper into the complex dynamics of the Palmer family. Haskell’s struggle with his physical limitations and his fraught relationship with Valeria will likely come to the forefront, revealing the emotional scars that lie beneath their sharp words and defiant attitudes. The question of loyalty, respect, and family bonds will be tested, leaving readers eager to uncover how these strained connections might either break or mend.

Moreover, the unexpected act of Crispin’s harsh discipline introduces a new layer of conflict that could have far-reaching consequences. How will Valeria react to this betrayal, and what repercussions will it have on Haskell’s standing within the family? With Thatch’s stern authority and Draven’s inscrutable smile lingering in the background, the next chapter is set to explore the fragile balance of power, pride, and pain that defines their lives. Emotions will run high, and the characters’ true intentions may be revealed in unexpected ways, keeping readers on edge and hungry for more.

Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.

The Throne of Thorns Novel Chapter 69

Wings of Broken Time by Alina Das 69