Chapter 1316:

Elyse wasn’t buying it. The room buzzed with tension, and Felicia’s attempt to downplay it only fueled her suspicion. Her gaze shifted to Thea, still kneeling awkwardly. With a raised brow, Elyse asked dryly, “So, what is it this time? Are you spreading rumors that I’ve been ruining your life again?”

Felicia’s brows knitted in confusion. “What’s this about? Did she do something to hurt you?” The question hung heavy in the air. Thea, clearly hoping to disappear, dropped her head lower, her silence an obvious admission of guilt.

Pearce, observing with detachment, finally intervened. Arms crossed, his voice was calm but cutting. “Let’s not get sidetracked. Thea hired someone to tamper with your agent’s car. Her intention was to harm both you and your agent.”

Elyse’s eyes blazed. “What? Are you saying she tried to kill me? What kind of grudge could justify that?” she asked, her voice a mix of shock and confusion.

Thea stayed silent, biting her lip hard.

Pearce continued. “This isn’t her first offense. Harassing you, sabotaging your work, dragging your name through the mud—those were distractions. Her real plan was to eliminate you permanently.”

Elyse turned to Thea, baffled. Her voice softened, filled with disbelief. “But why? What have I ever done to you to deserve this?”

Finally, Thea snapped. Lifting her head, her voice rose, shrill and accusatory. “You think we’re fine, don’t you? No bad blood. But to me, you’re a sneaky, conniving thief!”

Elyse blinked, stunned. “A thief? What are you talking about?”

Thea’s emotions boiled over. “In this family, I’ve always been at Grandma’s side. I’m the one who cares for her, keeps her company, makes her smile. As her loyal granddaughter, I’ve given her all the love and attention she could want.”

Her voice cracked, but her resentment burned. “And what do I get? Nothing! She doesn’t care about my sacrifices. She leaves everything to you. Have you ever cared for her? Have you served her tirelessly, day in and day out, the way I have? And what do I get? Not even a share of the company! Just some measly sum and worthless apartments. I can’t even touch them until I’m 40!”

Elyse furrowed her brows, crossing her arms. Her tone was calm but firm. “I only recently learned about the company shares, and I haven’t even discussed her will with her. If you’re unhappy, maybe you should talk to her directly.”

Thea let out a bitter laugh. “Talk to her about what? She’s made it clear that you’re the only real granddaughter. All those years I spent by her side were for nothing—absolutely nothing!”

Elyse stood silently, watching Thea’s outburst with a mixture of confusion and pity. The raw emotion left her speechless.