?Chapter 368:


    The rest of the Craigs knew better than to defend themselves. Cole would tear apart any excuse in seconds. They had two choices—confess or walk away from the Evans family and face Merlin’s fury. For the sake of their own survival and their n’s fate, they swallowed their pride and gave in.


    After her apology, Trinity nudged Bonnie.


    Bonnie got the message. She turned to Cole and said, “Your words made me realize my mistake. I want to apologize to Ms. Loftus as well.” With Bonnie leading, Norwood and Joslyn had no choice but to follow. Joslyn spoke up, bowing her head. “I was wrong. I spoiled Boris. His arrest was fair. As his mother, I want to apologize to Ms. Loftus.” Norwood chimed in, “I failed as a father. I also want to apologize to Ms. Loftus in person.”


    The room shifted. Just moments before, they had used Diane’s name like a shield, trying to guilt the Evans family into saving them. Now, with their pride torn down by Cole’s sharp words, the Evans family finally breathed easy. Only Cole could have handled this so perfectly. Elliana pulled out her phone and secretly sent Cole a message.


    The vibration against his palm drew his gaze downward. A soft smile touched his lips as he read, “Darling, you were absolutely amazing! I’m so proud of you!”


    He gave her hand a gentle squeeze before turning back to the Craigs. “This is exactly what Merlin wanted,” he said.


    The room went still as the truth of his words sank in. Every move Merlin had made had been designed to force the Craigs to bow their heads to Hailee.


    Cole continued, “Merlin could have crushed the Craig family without blinking. But out of respect for the long-standing ties between the Evans and Craig families, he’s showing you a drop of mercy. That mercyes with a price—you must apologize to Hailee in person and earn her forgiveness.”


    The Craigs dered quickly, their voices full of urgency. After all, if swallowing their pride was the price to pay, it was a bargain for the safety of their family.


    “We’ll apologize to Ms. Loftus!”


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    “Yes, absolutely!”


    However, their relief was short-lived. “Don’t celebrate just yet. An apology doesn’t mean this is over,” Cole warned.


    Their stomachs dropped.


    “Merlin was clear. If Hailee forgives you, that’s the end of it. But if she doesn’t, whatever awaits you will only be more severe.”


    Ignoring their fear, Cole picked up his phone and sent Merlin a message. “The Craigs are ready to apologize to Hailee in person. Where would you like them to meet her?”


    Merlin’s reply came instantly. “Can I use your home?”


    “Sure,” Cole responded.


    “Tell them to wait there. I’m on my way to get Hailee.”


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