?Chapter 838:


    Her gaze stayed fixed on the gravestones. Of course, there was no answer. But deep inside, she wished more than anything that her parents could speak to her again, even if it was only to scold her.


    A cool wind suddenly blew past, brushing a few fallen leaves against Ste’s cheek.


    It felt like her adoptive parents were reaching out tofort her, listening quietly to her pain.


    Even with the chill, a strange warmth spread through her.


    Through tear-blurred vision, Ste lifted her gaze toward their smiling portraits. Her voice trembled, but she kept speaking.


    “Mom, Dad, it’s you, isn’t it? He’s been so good to me. When I’m afraid, he shields me. When I’m broken, heforts me. He could’ve stayed out of it, kept living as the untouchable CEO of Briggs Group. But instead, he dragged their family scandal into the open for me. He’s standing in the middle of the storm now, all because of me…”


    How could her heart remain unmoved after all that? She wasn’t made of stone.<fn5044> ?????? ???? find?novel</fn5044>


    Taking a shaky breath, she went on in a helpless voice. “I don’t know what to do. My thoughts are all tangled. I think… I might really care for him. But if I let myself feel that way, would I be betraying you? Once I cross that line, nothing will ever be the same.”


    Here, in front of them, she finally admitted her fears. Only here could she show her true self, without fear of being judged or rejected.


    In their presence, she didn’t need to pretend anymore. She could let go of all the weight she carried and be that fragile little girl she used to be.


    Another breeze passed through, making the flowers by the graves move. The white petals swayed gently, almost as if they were telling her not to worry and to follow her heart.


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    Ste kept her eyes on the moving flowers, her mind full of mixed feelings. She remained seated for what felt like hours in front of the cold stones, letting out every thought she had been holding inside.


    No one answered her, but somehow, after saying it all, the heaviness in her heart felt lighter.


    The rain had eased, yet the sky stayed heavy with clouds.


    Ste lingered in front of her adoptive parents’ tombstones, her voice low as she whispered, “Rest assured. I’ll ensure that those who have hurt you face justice. As for William and me, I need time to make a decision. I’ll go for now, but I’lle back to see you again.”


    With those words, she turned away and descended the slick stone steps, her heart steadier than it had been upon arrival.


    Lifting her eyes toward the dim sky, she drew in a long breath and pressed on. Just before reaching the cemetery gates, her attention was caught by a ck car she knew all too well, waiting by the roadside.


    Through the half-lowered car window, William’s chiseled features came into view.


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