?Chapter 404:


    Matthew replied almost instantly. “That’s a sudden shift. Weren’t you the one telling me to avoid conflict unless it was life or death?”


    It was true. She had always urged caution. Moonveil and Star Society were evenly matched. Any confrontation would only hurt them both. It was the same delicate bnce between Thom Rose and ze Wildfire. For now, holding the line had been the smart move. But things had changed. Now that she was Cole’s wife, and Moonveil’s head had just threatened to make her vanish, she had to make a move.


    She typed slowly. “I just found out Jason is actually Sombra. We can’t share space anymore.”


    Matthew didn’t hesitate. “Understood.”


    After their exchange, Elliana left the Evans estate without dy.


    From behind a tree, Trinity stepped out, a sly smirk on her face. She had heard everything—Jason’s hatred for Elliana and his ns to drive her out. A quiet thrill rushed through her. This was the kind of advantage she needed.


    Just then, Lance walked out, ready to head to thepany. He spotted Trinity under the tree and approached her. “Trinity, what are you doing here?”


    Instantly, her smugness disappeared, reced by a picture of sadness, her eyes teary.


    Lance’s heart tightened. “Are you still upset aboutst night?”


    “Do you dislike me now, Lance? Will you never like me again?” Her voice cracked.


    He sighed. “I don’t dislike you. Yes, you made a mistake. But Grandpa was right—nobody’s perfect. As long as you learn from it, the Evans family—and I—will still care about you.”


    “Thank you, Lance.” Trinity looked up at him, her eyes shining. “But I’m so worried…”


    “About what?” he asked gently.


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    She bit her lip. “The truth is, I didn’t mean what I said about Hailee. I just panicked when I saw her tear my family apart. Plus, Elliana pushed her to cause that scene at the party. I never would’ve acted like that if it weren’t for Elliana—”


    Lance frowned but said nothing.


    Trinity pressed on. “Elliana hates me. She’s using Hailee to get revenge on my family. I’m afraid she’ll find more ways to ruin us. I don’t know how to make her stop. I’m living in fear every single day.”


    “Trinity,” Lance’s voice was firm as he cut her off.


    She froze, stunned. He had changed. He wasn’t the same Lance who used to hang on her every word and defend her no matter what. Now, his eyes held something else—disapproval.


    “Trinity, please don’t overthink it. Elliana is nothing like what you’re imagining.” After a brief silence, Lance continued, his voice sincere. “In truth, Elliana is a remarkable woman. She’s smart, kind, and warm-hearted. She would never go after your family over minor conflicts.”


    Lance meant every word he spoke. Even though he had shed with Elliana on more than one asion, she had stepped up and helped him pull the Seek project back from the edge when things got tough, showing that she never held a grudge. He found himself genuinely impressed by her sharp mind and hoped to pick up some of her wisdom. He shared these thoughts with Trinity, hoping she would see Elliana’s virtues and perhaps be inspired by her brilliance.


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