?Chapter 812:


    It wouldn’t be a wise move to have Karson go to the Briggs family to demand an exnation.


    Ste recognized Lance’s indignation on her behalf, yet she herself remained utterly unperturbed.


    “I didn’t do what he used me of. Even if he spreads rumors, the truth wille to light eventually.” Her tone was steady, unshaken.


    Lance looked at her, both frustrated and relieved by herposure. With nothing else to say, he finally nodded.


    After a pause, he tried to steer the conversation elsewhere. “Ste, today’s the Carter family banquet. Most of the rtives are already here, and it’s almost dinner. Let me take you to the dining room.”


    Ste sighed inwardly. She knew there was no escaping it. Quietly, she rose and followed him.


    The long rectangr table inside the dining room was nearly full. The chatter of rtives buzzed in the air as Ste slipped into her seat. Just as Karson raised his hand to invite everyone to start eating, the doorbell rang.


    The sudden sound froze the room. Karson frowned, then waved to a servant. “Go see who it is.”


    The maid hurried to the entrance. When she opened the door, her eyes widened in surprise. Standing there was William Briggs, dressed in a perfectly tailored ck suit.


    She turned back, slightly stunned. “Mr. William Briggs is here.”


    Ste’s breath caught. Her eyes widened. William? She hadn’t expected him to show up now of all times. The calm front she had forced earlier wavered, a flicker of unease running through her.


    At the table, Karson’s expression darkened instantly. Lance had already whispered in his ear about Amon’s earlier stunt, and Karson’s patience had run dry. Leaning on his cane, he got up and walked toward the door himself. “What brings you here, Mr. Briggs?”


    William was met with Karson’s polite smile—but the steel in his eyes was unmistakable. William inclined his head slightly. “Apologies, Mr. Carter. I was dyed by some matters today. I arrivedte.”


    Karson’s lips curved faintly, though his words carried no warmth. “Ah. Well, unfortunately, your timing couldn’t be worse. We’re about to start our family dinner. It wouldn’t be appropriate for you to join.”<fn42e1> Updates are released by fι?dnοvel</fn42e1>


    gα ?η σ ν?? ??s holds great reads


    William understood instantly. Karson wanted him gone.


    “I see. It was my mistake not toe earlier. I’ll ask for your forgiveness another time.”


    William wasn’t the type to force his way in. To press now would only make things worse.


    Karson nodded slightly, satisfied with his tact but unwilling to ease his stance. “At least you know your ce. If only all members of the Briggs family behaved like you… what a pity.”


    He paused deliberately, his eyes narrowing. “Your cousin just left. You didn’t run into him on the way here?”


    The mention of Amon made William’s heart sink. So that was it. He hadn’t even known Amon was at the Carters’, let alone that he had caused trouble.


    Keeping his voice even, William replied, “You’re right, Mr. Carter. I’ll deal with it when I return. Please ept my apologies on behalf of my family.”


    .


    .


    .