?Chapter 256:


    Though Trinity’s chest felt ready to burst, she kept her tone light. “Cole, I’ll convince Dr. Atkinson to allow everyone in the Evans family to attend the mentorship ceremony. You and Elliana can finally see for yourselves how incredible he is.”


    Trinity was determined to make sure Cole saw her shining at center stage, all while Elliana slowly slipped out of the spotlight.


    However, thanks to Elliana, Cole was almost certain this Dr. Atkinson Trinity mentioned was aplete fake. He had no intention of showing up. What was the point of meeting a fraud?


    But before Cole could shut it down, Elliana interjected cheerfully, “That sounds amazing! Cole and I will be there to support you, Miss Craig.”


    Cole turned his head, eyes narrowing slightly as he looked at Elliana. Right away, he spotted the gleam in her eyes—sharp and yful, full of quiet intent.


    It reminded him of the time she effortlessly outyed both Kiara and Paige. It seemed she was cooking up something again. And honestly, he was all in. If she wanted to stir things up, he was more than happy to y along.


    With that, Cole turned toward Trinity and said, “Alright.”


    Trinity looked like she might fall over from shock, but then her face lit up with a radiant grin. This was the very first time Cole had epted one of her invitations. In the past, he had always brushed off whatever she proposed, citing his packed schedule as an excuse. Now that he’d agreed, she was determined to use this chance to shine like never before in his eyes.


    And just like that, the topic of Dr. Atkinson was shelved—for now.


    Elliana had seen enough of Trinity’s performance for one evening. Her mind was already elsewhere, eager to catch up with Hailee.


    Cole picked up on her shift in mood and rose to his feet, bringing her up along with him. “Grandpa, I’m tired. We’re heading back to Regal Grove.”


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    Everyone in the room remembered Cole was still recovering and needed his rest.


    Ruben didn’t protest, offering a firm nod. “Go on, Cole. And Elliana, stay close to him. He’s still healing, so keep him from overdoing it.” Cole gave a courteous goodbye before walking out with Elliana at his side.


    Jeff, who hadn’t had a chance to talk to Elliana all evening, jumped off the couch and hurried after them toward the vi entrance.


    “Elliana!” Jeff shouted as she walked ahead.


    Elliana paused and turned around. “What is it, Jeff?”


    Jeff’s eyes lit up right away. He looked ready to ask how she’d been and catch up. Elliana hadn’t visited the Evans family’s estate in days, and he’d been missing her like crazy.


    But just as Jeff opened his mouth, Cole’s cold voice interjected, “What does a little runt like you want? Scram!”


    Jeff flinched, startled, and swallowed whatever he was about to say. He cast a wary nce at Cole, the big bad wolf, before mumbling a quiet farewell to Elliana.


    Then, without another word, Jeff turned and shuffled back indoors, his posture heavy with defeat.


    Even from a distance, Jeff’s small frame seemed to carry the weight of heartache. The same kid who used to be a walking menace now looked like a pitiful, sad cartoon with his feelings hurt.


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