Chapter 540

Shane's eyes revealed a hint of surprise. "Why would you think that? Don't worry, I'm just tired from work and had a drink with my brother tonight."

"Is your brother back from abroad?" Haley asked.

"Yes, we had some drinks together, so I got back late," Shane explained.

Haley nodded, not pressing further. Although she respected Steven, the awkwardness from the broken engagement and the constant targeting from Evelyn and Stella made her reluctant to keep in touch.

Shane lay on his side, one arm around Haley's shoulder, pulling her close, while the other arm circled her waist, his fingers playing with her hair.

After a while, he looked down at her and cautiously asked, "I've made arrangements for Joe to have a rough time in prison, but since Xena is pregnant, she won't be held for long. How do you plan to handle her?"

"As long as she stays out of trouble, I won't bother her. But if she causes problems, I won't hold back," Haley replied, snuggling closer to Shane and finding a comf