?Chapter 1259:


    Lance leaned against the doorframe of her room, watching her as the makeup artist rehearsed her bridal look. Dressed in soft loungewear, Ste looked gentle and radiant, her expression full of shy anticipation.


    He should’ve been happy for her. But his heart twisted instead.


    He knew her amnesia wasn’t natural—Marc must have had a hand in it. Yet, now that Ste seemed genuinely willing to marry him, what could he do? He couldn’t stop a wedding between two consenting adults.


    He forced a smile and tried to sound casual. “Stel, tomorrow’s the big day. Are you sure about all this?”


    He tried to make it sound like a brother’s simple concern, not doubt.


    Catching his gaze in the mirror, Ste smiled brightly. “Lance, why do you sound so serious? Of course I’m sure. Marc treats me so well. I’m happy we’re finally getting married.”


    Her voice was steady, eyes clear—no hesitation at all.


    Lance’s chest grew tight. He stepped closer and gently ruffled her hair. “As long as you’re happy,” he said quietly. “But marriage isn’t something you can take back. Once you step into it, it’s a promise—for life. If he ever treats you badly again, youe to me. The Carter family will always have your back.”


    Remembering everything Ste endured after marrying Marcst time made Lance feel even worse.


    Back then, she was alone and helpless—how had she managed to get through it?


    And now that same man wanted to start over, as if nothing had ever happened. He didn’t trust it. Not one bit.


    But looking at Ste’s innocent expression, her trust so pure, he couldn’t bring himself to say more.


    “Don’t worry, Lance,” Ste said softly. “Marc isn’t that kind of person. We’ve been through a lot together. We understand each other now. We’ll cherish what we have.”


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    She truly believed those words. The past—his betrayal, her heartbreak—was gone from her memory.


    Lance sighed inwardly and left the room, feeling powerless.


    Later that night, Karson summoned Ste into his study.


    The old man sat by the window, his silver hair shining under the warm light. Though his back was still straight and strong, there was something fragile in his eyes as he looked at his granddaughter.


    “Stel,” he said, patting the seat beside him, “time really flies. You’re getting married already.”


    He took her hand, his tone half teasing, half tender. “I was hoping to keep you here a few more years. The Carter family has more than enough to care for you. Why rush into marriage?”


    He hadn’t had much time to make up for all the years they’d lost, and now she was leaving again.


    When she had almost married William before, he’d felt reluctant too—but William had treated her well, so he’d let her go with peace of mind.


    Marc, though…


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