?Chapter 855:


    “I told you, it’s not about money!” he snapped. “Her temper’s unbearable. I’m done. She can go find herself a new boyfriend!”


    William’s gaze stayed locked on him, cool and unflinching. His voice was calm, almost quiet. “You know best what’s really going on.”


    William rose to his feet, straightening the cuffs of his suit. His gaze bore down on Hancock, cool andmanding. “Seems your father hasn’t taught you much about being a man. I’ll be sure to bring this up with him another time. For now, return the money Lena lent you for this trip. Don’t make the rest of us men look bad.”


    Hancock blinked at him, stunned. The bravado he had clung to moments ago began to drain away. He knew William was serious. And truth be told, refusing to repay his girlfriend was shameful—something he couldn’t say out loud without losing face.


    Ste pulled out her phone, tapping a few buttons before looking up. “Here’s the temporary ount Lena is using. I expect the transfer within ten minutes.” Neither she nor William spared Hancock another nce.


    They weren’t there to mediate the couple’s drama—only to get Lena’s money back. With the matter handled, they turned and walked out.<fnb961> This text is hosted at find(?)ovel</fnb961>


    Back in the car, Ste’s thoughts tangled. She hadn’t expected things to be resolved this way, and certainly not that William would know Hancock’s father. William seemed to catch her unspoken questions. Starting the engine, he exined evenly, “I’ve worked with his father before. He and I have a decent rtionship. I just didn’t think his son would turn out so petty.”


    Ste nodded slowly. “People like Hancock don’t respond to reason. I just never imagined his father was a prosecutor—let alone someone connected to you.”


    William’s tone stayed neutral. “His father’s sharp. Reputation matters to him. Hancock’s the only son, spoiled to the bone—but terrified of his father. For their family, that money means nothing. What matters is dignity.”


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    Ste understood. However it had been achieved, the problem was solved.


    When they returned to the hotel, Lena was pacing her room, anxiety written all over her face. She wanted her money back, but she hadn’t wanted to force a confrontation. In truth, she hadn’t even nned on breaking up with Hancock. The moment she saw Ste and William, Lena pushed aside her jumbled thoughts and rushed forward, hope shining in her eyes.


    Ste rested a hand on her shoulder. “It’s taken care of. Check your ount—the transfer should cover your ticket home and your expenses for now.” Lena fumbled for her phone, checking as Ste recounted the brief meeting with Hancock. Her expression shifted with mixed feelings. “Did… did he say anything about me?”


    Ste shook her head. “No. He just sent the money. The rest is for the two of you to figure out. You still have his number, right?”


    Lena’s eyes dimmed at that, though she quickly nodded and murmured her thanks. She had told herself she didn’t want to end things with Hancock, but she hadn’t expected him to be so cold. The realization stung.


    Her emotions shifted quickly—within moments, disappointment faded, and her gaze sharpened. If Hancock could be so heartless, why should she cling to him? There were plenty of men in the world. Someone like William, for instance, was already miles ahead of Hancock.


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