?Chapter 1636:


    Deep down, shame coiled in her chest. She had been wrong, and her excuses—flimsy, hollow—crumbled under scrutiny.


    Biting her lip until it stung, Sarai forced the words out, her voice trembling. “Belinda, I see my mistake now. Could you please give me onest chance?”


    “No.” Belinda’s rejection was merciless, devoid of any hesitation.


    Everyone had their limit, a line that could not be crossed. Sarai’s actions had trampled over Belinda’s, a betrayal too deep to forgive.


    “Do not call me again, pretending to be sorry and begging for forgiveness. We are done.” Belinda’s voice was ice. She ended the call.


    After that, she took a deep breath, her face pale and her mood sour. Sarai’s call had ripped open old wounds, the sting of betrayal resurfacing.


    Sarai’s so-called confession only confirmed what Belinda had long suspected: Sarai had ckmailed Holley with that hormone incident from the start. She had been aware of it all along but had never intended to tell her the truth before.


    It did not matter anymore, Belinda thought, her jaw tight. She had already beenpletely disappointed in Sarai anyway.


    In the CEO’s office of Triumph Consortium, Lucas adjusted his tie, ready to leave. Just then, the door swung open, and Faye stepped inside, her eyes wide and pleading.


    “Uncle Lucas,” she said, her voice soft.


    Lucas’ expression remained stone-cold, his gaze flicking to her briefly. “What do you want?” he asked, his tone clipped.


    Faye shifted her weight, her fingers twisting together. “I want to apologize to you,” she murmured, her eyes dropping to the floor.


    He only gave her a sidelong nce, his silence heavy.


    “That night,” Faye said, her voice barely above a whisper, “I was wrong. Going to that bar, drinking alone—it was stupid. I caused trouble for you and Belinda.” Her shoulders hunched, guilt etching her face.


    Faye’s voice wavered, a tremor of fear creeping in. “Looking back, I realize I was reckless. If you and Belinda had not shown up when you did, that guy… I could have been in real danger.”


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    Lucas’ stern expression softened, just a fraction. He exhaled, his voice low but firm. “Since you know that was dangerous, do not repeat the mistake.”


    Faye nodded quickly. “I get it, Uncle Lucas. I swear I will not do it again.” She hesitated, then lifted her gaze, her eyes searching his. “So, you are not mad at me anymore, right?”<fna25a> ???s ??????? ?s ?????? ?? find(?)ovel</fna25a>


    Lucas replied, “As long as you keep your word.”


    That was his way of saying he wasn’t angry with her anymore.


    Relief washed over Faye’s face. “I knew it! You are the best!” She smiled.


    Lucas waved a hand, dismissing the moment. “Alright, go eat something. I am heading out.”


    “Where are you going for a meal?” Faye asked, her voice bright, trailing him as he moved toward the door. “Can I tag along?”


    He shook his head, his tone final. “I am not going to eat. I am picking up Belinda.”


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