Chapter 1318:

“You must remember that neither you nor your father are true Bensons by blood. I took him in from an orphanage. I gave him the opportunity to marry and to have you.”

She paused, then added, “I transformed your entire family’s fate. Yet, because you didn’t receive the company shares, you chose to hurt others. I’m deeply disappointed.”

Pearce interjected, his voice firm, “You’re upset about not getting the shares, but remember, she left you money and apartments. She even ensured your allowance was paid promptly and found a suitable partner for you. How could she overlook the good you’ve done for her? Your greed, both you and your father’s, knows no bounds.”

Thea bit her lip, remaining silent. The weight of the words hung heavy and uncomfortable in the air. After a long silence, she stood up and rushed out of the room.

As she stormed out, Pearce’s anger deepened.

“What does she think she’s doing, running off like that? I should go and bring her back.”

Felicia sighed, shaking her head.

“No, let her be. Her presence here only aggravates me further.”

She turned to Elyse and said gently, “Elyse, would you like to stay for dinner tonight? We never had a chance to share a proper meal together.”

Elyse looked at Felicia and saw a hint of eagerness in her eyes.

“Yes, I would like to.”

A smile spread across Felicia’s face.

“Wonderful. I’ll ask the cook to prepare your favorite dishes. Let’s enjoy a nice dinner together.”

Felicia felt a genuine sense of happiness from having so many people around her. Elyse could tell the old lady was truly lonely.

“Grandma, could we move somewhere private to talk?” Elyse suggested.

Felicia nodded and led Elyse to a study at the back of the house.

Once inside, Elyse closed the door and helped Felicia into a chair.

“Grandma, are you truly planning to give the shares to me? I think Thea might be right. She’s been taking care of you, and I haven’t really done anything for you. It doesn’t seem fair for me to receive the shares.”

Felicia gently patted Elyse’s hand, her gaze tender and unwavering.

“There’s no one more deserving than you, my dear.”

Elyse shook her head, her voice tinged with humility. “But Grandma, I don’t feel worthy of these shares. I haven’t been by your side the way Thea has. Despite her intentions, she’s cared for you all these years. I can’t hold a candle to that.”

A wistful smile graced Felicia’s face as she reached out to caress Elyse’s cheek, her touch filled with unspoken affection. Elyse’s features reflected memories of her son, Rickey.

“True, you haven’t been here—neither in presence nor proximity—but every time you’ve stood before me, the bond between us has been undeniable,” Felicia sighed, her voice heavy with emotion.