?Chapter 490:


    Settled into a cozy armchair, cane by her side, Bertha clutched her chest, keeping her worried eyes fixed on Elyse.


    Samira, despite feeling let down by Elyse’s recent actions, stepped in to soothe her. Known for her past kindness and sensibleness, Elyse’s current state was rmingly uncharacteristic.


    Samira inquired, “Elyse, what happened? How did Elena manage to upset you so much?”


    Elyse, ignoring Samira, gripped Bertha’s hand and leveled a painful usation. “Grandma, you always said I was your favorite, but it seems like Elena has taken my ce since she returned.”


    With a heavy sigh, Bertha responded, “I cherish both of you…”


    Tears reddened Elyse’s eyes as she spoke, her words sharp with perceived betrayal. “I’ve always felt like an outsider next to Elena, and I’ve never tried topete with her. I let her have Leopardex when she wanted it. When she didn’t want me at Alexander’s, I moved out. I’ve made so many concessions, and yet, she continues to treat me poorly… Jeffry, Ellis, and Louis have all ignored me, and Louis even went so far as to shame me publicly!”


    As Samira listened, she began to reflect. Had she been too harsh? The distress in Elyse’s voice was evident…


    Samira grew increasingly angry. “Louis publicly shamed you?”


    Elyse manipted the story to her advantage. “Today, during my audition, I encountered Louis and Elena. Louis feared I would outshine Elena, so he persuaded the director to dismiss me. Samira, you’re aware of the effort I’ve put into preparing for the role. Yet, I was denied even a chance to prove myself… What must I do to appease Elena? Does she expect me to perish? Will she only be satisfied then?”


    As Elyse made her usations, she dashed toward the kitchen.


    Bertha was horrified, her heart skipping a beat. “Quickly, catch her! Make sure she doesn’t harm herself!”


    Without hesitation, Samira caught hold of Elyse. “Listen to me, your grandmother is here, and she’ll defend you. Please, think carefully before you act!”


    Elyse shook her head, sobbing uncontrobly. “Louis vowed to never let me off the hook. He’ll surely use me of bullying Elena and demand an apology. By then, you’ll all take their side over mine…”


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    Bertha, terrified that Elyse might injure herself, quicklyforted her. “I believe you. We all do! You’re my cherished child, and I won’t let anyone bully you!”


    A flicker of satisfaction crossed Elyse’s eyes, though she kept up her charade. “Truly? You’ll stand by me?”


    Bertha mmed her cane down in determination. “Samira, summon Alexander and his family right now. It’s time Louis apologizes to Elyse!”


    Just then, a sh of lightning cut through the night sky, quickly followed by a booming thunderp and a sudden downpour. Within minutes, Alexander’s family had assembled.


    “Why thete call, Mom? What’s going on?” Alexander questioned as soon as he arrived.


    Bertha responded with a harsh tone, “You might want to ask your son that question!”


    Seeing his mother’s frustration, Alexander looked toward his sons with a cool, questioning stare. “Exin yourselves.”


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