Skipped at the altar, Taken by his uncle Novel

Time Between Lost Worlds - Steven Bennett 21 Summary In Chapter 21 of "Time Between Lost Worlds," Whitney arrives at Sabrina's home, greeted by Sabrina's enthusiastic welcome. However, despite the warmth of the moment, Whitney feels a heavy unease. The conversation shifts to her recent work stress and a burn on her neck, which raises concern from James. This concern only amplifies Whitney's discomfort as she realizes they are aware of her injuries, hinting at deeper issues in her relationship with Carter, Sabrina's son.

As the family dynamics unfold, James insists that Carter apologize for the incident that led to Whitney's injury, even though Whitney herself does not feel the need for an apology. This moment reveals the tension between Whitney and Carter, who seems more preoccupied with his work than her well-being. The atmosphere grows increasingly charged as Emily, another family member, is drawn into the fray, and the conversation shifts to her involvement in the incident. Whitney observes the interactions with a mix of skepticism and resignation, feeling that the apologies being offered lack sincerity.

Sabrina attempts to keep the mood light and encourages Whitney to forgive Carter, emphasizing the upcoming wedding. However, Whitney's internal conflict deepens as she confesses to Sabrina that she has no intention of marrying Carter. She reflects on her years of devotion and the absence of love in their relationship, contrasting her experiences with Carter's genuine affection for others. Whitney's resolve strengthens as she confronts Sabrina, demanding to be heard and asserting her right to a loving relationship.

As the chapter progresses, Whitney makes it clear that she will not go through with the wedding without love, setting a deadline for her decision. She expresses her need to reclaim her dignity and independence, leaving Sabrina with a heavy heart. The chapter concludes with Carter's frustration as he searches for a box, only to discover that Whitney has left, escalating the tension and uncertainty surrounding their relationship. The emotional stakes are high, as Whitney grapples with her feelings and the expectations placed upon her, ultimately choosing to prioritize her own happiness.

Continue Regular Chapter Reading Below **Title: Time Between Lost Worlds - Steven Bennett** **Chapter 21** The moment Whitney stepped through the door, Sabrina's face lit up with a radiant smile that seemed to brighten the entire room. "Oh, you made it, Whit!" she exclaimed, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm. Without hesitation, Sabrina enveloped Whitney in a warm embrace and guided her to a seat right beside her. Despite the gesture, Whitney couldn't shake the sense of unease that settled over her like a thick fog.

Sabrina had always been kind, but today, her attentiveness felt almost overwhelming, as if she were trying to compensate for something. From the upper floor, James caught the sound of Whitney's voice drifting up from the living room and decided to investigate. He emerged from his study, his expression transforming into a welcoming grin. "Whit, just wrapped up work, huh? You seem busy lately. You look slimmer," he remarked, his smile genuine and warm, as though he had just seen an old friend. Whitney shifted in her seat, feeling the weight of their concern pressing down on her.

"Grandpa, work's been a bit hectic, but I'm managing just fine," she replied, trying to sound more confident than she felt. "That's good to hear. You're always so capable. By the way, how's that burn on your neck? Has it healed up?" James inquired, his tone shifting to one of genuine concern. Whitney was momentarily taken aback, her mind racing. *How did they know about the burn?* She instinctively touched her neck, brushing her fingers over the tender skin, and forced a smile. "It's fine now. No pain at all," she reassured him, hoping to deflect the conversation.

James's gaze shifted sharply to Carter, who stood awkwardly to the side, a look of irritation etched across his face. "Carter, come over here. You need to apologize to Whitney," he commanded, his tone leaving no room for argument. Whitney arched an eyebrow, watching as Carter approached with a reluctant gait. She smiled gently, "It's really not necessary. He wasn't the one who hurt me." In truth, she didn't crave an apology; it felt hollow, like a formality that no one truly meant. "No, he should apologize. Carter can be careless sometimes, always lost in his work.

It's not that he doesn't care about you, Whitney, so don't hold it against him," Sabrina interjected, her voice soothing yet firm, trying to ease the tension. Carter sighed deeply, his head hanging low, eyes glued to the floor. "Sorry," he muttered, his voice barely above a whisper. "Say it louder," James barked, his annoyance bubbling to the surface. Carter mustered more volume, "Sorry, I really didn't know you got burned." Whitney couldn't help but smirk to herself, *As if it would make a difference if he did know.

Would he ever prioritize me over his precious sister?* Klein lounged back in his chair, legs crossed, casting a long, scrutinizing look at Carter. "Now it's Emily's turn," he declared, a hint of mischief in his voice. Carter frowned, a flicker of protectiveness crossing his features. "Uncle Klein, this really has nothing to do with Emily. She's innocent. She didn't know Tina would blow up like that out of nowhere." Klein narrowed his eyes, a predatory glint appearing. "Oh? Then why don't you enlighten us, Emily?

What were you looking for when you went after Whitney?" Emily bit her lip, her complexion paling as if the very question had drained the color from her face. "Uncle Klein, I..." "Enough of this. Carter, keep quiet," James snapped, wielding his cane like a weapon, his patience wearing thin. His piercing gaze then shifted to Emily. "Emily, apologize." Carter glanced at Emily, concern etched across his features. He understood that any defense he offered would only dig her deeper into trouble. With a shaky breath, Emily clutched the hem of her shirt, summoning her courage.

"Whitney, I'm really sorry. I had no idea Tina would lose it and start throwing things at you." Whitney offered a faint smile, her voice softening. "Alright, I understand." A flicker of hope ignited in Emily's eyes. "Whitney, you're always so understanding. You'll forgive me, won't you?" Whitney regarded her with a cool gaze. "Milly, are you really trying to pressure me into forgiving you?" "Since we're all being honest today, there's something I need to say too. I already talked to Carter about this a while back, Grandpa.

Not sure if he ever mentioned it to you," she continued, her tone shifting to something more serious. Carter's heart raced, panic coursing through him. *What is she planning? Is she really going to tell Grandpa she wants out of the engagement?* Sabrina's heart skipped a beat, and she instinctively reached for Whitney's hand, forcing a laugh that didn't quite reach her eyes. "Come on, Whitney, whatever it is, let's discuss it after dinner, okay? It's almost seven.

I bet you're starving." George, who had been quietly observing the exchange, glanced at Sabrina and seemed to catch on to the tension in the room. "Yeah, let's eat first. Dad, why don't we start dinner?" Klein stood up, a smirk playing on his lips as he looked at Emily, who appeared as pale as a ghost, before turning his gaze to Carter, whose expression was stormy. In that moment, Carter felt a wave of dread wash over him, fearing that Whitney might actually reveal the truth. He was terrified that if Whitney spoke up, Emily would be shipped off abroad for another five years, just like before.

Dinner unfolded with everyone distracted, the atmosphere thick with unspoken words and unresolved tension. Whitney had accepted Sabrina's suggestion to hold off on the conversation for now, but she was determined to ensure that Sabrina heard her out today, no matter what. "I'm full. I'm going back to my room," Emily declared, the first to set her fork down, her voice tinged with a hint of defiance. James glanced at her, his expression indifferent.

"Okay." Sabrina, eager to keep the mood light, chimed in, "Milly, if you're finished, you can head upstairs." She then shot George a meaningful look. George caught the hint and spoke up, "Dad, I want to discuss that project with you and Klein." James sighed, a hint of annoyance creeping into his voice. "Do we have to talk about it now?" "Dad, it's pretty urgent," George insisted, his tone brooking no argument. Reluctantly, James conceded and followed them upstairs, but before he left, he turned to Whitney. "Don't wait for me. Just go ahead and eat.

I'll be back down soon." Sabrina had deftly orchestrated the room's dynamics, ensuring that everyone else was gone. Whitney sensed the shift and set her fork down, recognizing that Sabrina desired a private conversation. "Carter, could you go upstairs and grab that box for me? Hurry!" Sabrina urged, her tone leaving no room for hesitation. Carter cast Whitney a lingering look, his expression conflicted, before heading upstairs. Once he was out of sight, Sabrina seized Whitney's hand, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Whit, I'm truly sorry you've had to endure all this.

My son can be such a nerd sometimes. Don't let it bother you." "But look, you two have made it through five years to get here, and the wedding is just around the corner. Try to forgive him for being a little immature, alright? Trust me, once you're married, if he ever upsets you again, I'll set him straight. And even if I don't, his grandpa won't let him off easy. Don't stay upset, honey. I genuinely adore you. I'm counting down the days until your wedding." Whitney offered a soft smile, but her heart felt heavy. "Sabrina, I've already made up my mind not to marry him.

Didn't Carter tell you all?" "The day we failed to get the license, I knew right then that I wasn't going to marry him." Sabrina's smile faltered, a flicker of concern crossing her features. "Whit, please be honest with me. Has Carter been giving you a hard time? If he has, just tell me.

I'll stand up for you." "But with the wedding just days away, I really don't like hearing you talk about not going through with it." Whitney's thoughts darkened as she mused, *She keeps pretending to care, but of course she'll back her own son.* "Sabrina, I've spent five years convincing myself that Carter loves me. But even now, I've never once felt that love returned. "I know all his favorites. I was always his little shadow, trailing behind him, hoping for a glimpse of affection. "When he finally introduced me to his friends, I felt a surge of pride, thinking he had finally fallen for me.

"But I can't keep lying to myself. With her, he remembers every little detail, every moment they share. "He never forgets a single day spent with her. But me? He can't even recall the date we were supposed to get our marriage license." Whitney met Sabrina's gaze directly, her resolve hardening. "Sabrina, I can't accept a marriage without love. I deserve more than an open relationship. Shouldn't I walk away?" Her question struck a chord with Sabrina, who parted her lips to respond but only managed a long, weary sigh. "Honestly, it's Carter's fault.

You haven't done anything wrong," she said gently, squeezing Whitney's hand in a show of solidarity. "I didn't do a good job raising my son, so please don't blame yourself. "But Whit, could you just give us a little more time, okay? I'm just scared it'll be too much for James to handle." "How about this? Don't get the marriage license just yet; have the wedding first. After it's all over, you can tell James that you're not really right for each other. Do you think that would work?" Sabrina proposed, her voice filled with desperation. Whitney's expression hardened, her gaze turning icy.

"That's not acceptable. If we go through with the wedding, wouldn't everyone just assume I'm married? "Sabrina, do you really think that's fair to a girl's reputation?" Sabrina fell silent, the weight of Whitney's words hanging in the air. "The most I can give you is five days. You'd better figure out how to break it to James," Whitney stated, her tone unyielding. "If not, I won't be showing up at the wedding at all," she added, her determination resolute. Whitney stood up, her decision made. "Sabrina, I need to leave now.

Could you let James know I'm going?" She had already stretched her limits, and now it was time to reclaim her dignity. Meanwhile, Carter was still upstairs, fruitlessly hunting for that elusive box, growing increasingly frustrated. When he finally descended the stairs, he found his mother waiting for him, her expression fierce. "Where is she?" Carter demanded, his voice tinged with urgency. Sabrina shot him a withering glare. "Your fiancée just left with someone else. Happy now?" Conclusion In the aftermath of the tumultuous dinner, Whitney's heart felt lighter yet heavier at the same time.

She had finally found the courage to voice her truth, a truth that had been buried under layers of expectation and unreciprocated affection for far too long. As she stepped out into the cool evening air, the weight of her decision settled over her like a comforting blanket. No longer would she allow herself to be a mere shadow in Carter's life, constantly seeking validation in a love that had never truly been hers. Whitney understood that reclaiming her dignity came with its own set of challenges, but the thought of living a life dictated by someone else's choices was far more daunting.

With each step away from the house, she felt a sense of empowerment blossom within her, a promise to herself that she would no longer settle for anything less than the love she deserved. Meanwhile, Carter's frustration morphed into a deep-seated fear as he realized the gravity of what had just transpired. Sabrina's words echoed in his mind, a haunting reminder of his negligence and the impending consequences of his actions. The reality that Whitney had chosen to walk away from their engagement struck him like a bolt of lightning, igniting a panic that coursed through his veins.

Moreover, the dynamics between the characters are set to shift dramatically. With Carter's frustration simmering and Sabrina's desperation for family harmony, the stage is set for explosive confrontations and revelations. Emily's earlier hint about something significant adds an intriguing layer of mystery-what does she know that could change everything? As secrets threaten to unravel, readers will be on the edge of their seats, eager to discover if Whitney can muster the strength to stand up for herself amidst the chaos, or if she will be swept back into a life defined by others' choices.