?Chapter 268:


    Sylvia buried her face in Cecily’s arms, shaking as she sobbed. She could still smell the stench clinging to her.


    A few days passed, and the tension between Benjamin and Cecily began to ease. With urgency in her voice, Cecily pleaded, “Darling, do something. Sylvia is just a young girl with no experience. How can she deal with these people?”


    Benjamin’s brows furrowed, his expression unreadable. After a long silence, he finally spoke. “Given the situation, our only option is to go to the and find Elena.”


    If the Harper family got involved, their financial troubles and supply issues could be solved in an instant.


    Cecily hesitated before voicing her frustration. “Is there truly no other option than to ask Elena for help? What about the Griffiths? Sylvia and Darren are still engaged—shouldn’t they step in?”


    “Enough!” Benjamin snapped, his irritation barely contained. Though life with Cecily carried on as usual, his patience had worn thin since that night. Her naivements only fueled his frustration.


    With a sharp look, he said, “You’re still holding out hope for the Griffiths? Sylvia was humiliated, but Darren didn’t even show up. Do you honestly believe he’lle to thepany’s rescue?” Cecily immediately mped her mouth shut.


    Benjamin pressed on, his decision final. “This matter is settled. Tomorrow, I’ll visit the Harper estate. I refuse to believe Elena would dare turn her back on the man who raised her.”


    The following morning, an uninvited visitor appeared at the Harper family’s vi. Alexander was at work, and Jolie was out socializing. Only Elena was home.


    Benjamin arrived, carrying two gifts, his tone warm and affectionate. “Elena, it’s been ages. Cecily and I have missed you. We’ve wanted to visit for so long. Seeing that you’re doing well here eases my mind.”


    Elena remained expressionless.


    Undeterred by her cold demeanor, Benjamin continued, “I came today hoping you could speak to Mr. Harper. Please ask him to help mypany deal with those troublesome workers.”


    Elena’s lips curled into a sneer. Benjamin truly knew no shame. This was the same man who once tried to marry her off to a divorced older man. The same man who cast her aside without listening when Sylvia falsely used her. And now, he had the gall to ask for her help?


    Elena’s voice was steady butced with mockery. “I have no ties to the Reed family anymore. Why should I lift a finger for you?”


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    Benjamin’s expression darkened at her outright refusal.


    Trying to assert his authority, Benjamin began lecturing. “What’s done is done. I’m standing here, apologizing in person. What else do you want? Cecily is so distraught she’s fallen ill. We raised you, Elena—we are, and always will be, like parents to you. A little gratitude wouldn’t hurt. You should show me some respect, not dwell on past grievances. It’s improper.”


    Elena nearlyughed at the absurdity. His gifts were nothing more than cheap tokens.


    Her tone was calm, yet dripping with sarcasm. “I should show you some respect, huh?”


    Benjamin’s face hardened. “Enough of this nonsense. Call Mr. Harper now and have him sort out the Reed family’s problems. And while you’re at it, find the bestwyer in the to handle thewsuit—”


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