Chapter 554:

Freda, maintaining composure, told her father, "I want to apologize to him in person." Her expression remained carefully neutral, concealing her true feelings. Karl nodded, his satisfaction evident. "Now that you've realized your mistake, end this hunger strike. Eat something," he advised.

Freda nodded obediently and waited for the servants. Then, she quickly messaged Alena, informing her of her change of heart. She would no longer pursue Theo, but Gavin and Elyse wouldn't escape unscathed.

Alena, relieved, replied, "That's the spirit. You'll settle scores with Gavin and Elyse."

Freda's eyebrow arched. She was determined to take revenge on Gavin; his interference had ruined her attempt to manipulate Theo—an attempt that had almost succeeded.

The next morning, Freda rose early, carefully selecting her outfit and applying makeup. By the time she was ready, Gavin had already arrived. Karl, who had scheduled a business meeting with Gavin, led him into the study. Freda leisurely settled on the living room couch, enjoying some fruit.

Three hours later, the men emerged.

Karl's eyes briefly met Freda's before he turned to Gavin. "There was a misunderstanding between you and my daughter. She's eager to speak with you," he said cordially.

Karl then left, reassuringly patting Gavin's shoulder. He sensed Freda might be reluctant to apologize in his presence.

As Karl exited, Freda gracefully rose and approached Gavin, her eyes fixed on him. He looked remarkably younger than at their last meeting, dressed in a russet overcoat over a vibrant vermilion sweater. Despite considering him a "stupid violinist," Freda found him captivating.

"What do you have to say?" Gavin asked, raising an eyebrow.

"I apologize," Freda responded with formidable hauteur, holding her head high. "Your vulnerability allowed me to easily alter the outcome, and for that, I am sorry."

Gavin chuckled derisively. He reached for his scarf, indicating his intention to leave.

Freda intervened quickly. "You've heard my apology. Don't you have anything to say?"

Gavin looked genuinely perplexed. "What am I expected to say?"

"That you forgive me," Freda responded firmly.

Gavin shrugged. "First, your apology lacks sincerity, and second, I see no reason to accept it," he retorted, leaning forward, his gaze piercing. "I know it's a sham. Spare me the performance."

"So, you reject my apology?" Freda's brow furrowed.

"Why should I accept it?" Gavin countered, straightening up with a hint of amusement. "As I said, it's meaningless."

Freda's expression darkened as she considered swallowing her pride, offering a heartfelt apology, and begging forgiveness.

Before she could decide, Gavin interrupted. "Save yourself the trouble. I'll tell your father I accepted your apology." He gently nudged her. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have things to attend to."

Freda was stunned as he left, realizing he held her in utter contempt.

Shortly after, Karl returned, chuckling. "I truly believe you're sorry," he said, approaching Freda. "Gavin assured me you're a good girl. He doesn't hold your slip-up against you."

Karl sighed, admiration in his voice. "That Gavin, he has a heart of gold. It's rare to find such a fine young man." Why was such a man rare? Wasn't Theo even more exceptional? Freda's thoughts raced, but she held them back and retreated to her room. Once alone, she hastily called Alena.

"What's going on?" Alena asked curiously.

"I've just devised the most delicious plan for revenge," Freda responded excitedly.

Alena's jaw dropped. "Against Gavin? What are you planning?"

"I'm going to pretend to fall for him," Freda explained mischievously. "I'll get close, uncover his secrets, and then destroy him."

"Why?" Alena asked, intrigued but concerned.

"He's arrogant and pretentious," Freda complained. "My father praises him endlessly. Theo is clearly better, but my father's blind to it! Gavin ruined my chances with Theo!"

Alena pursed her lips. "Well, you can try," she said. "But winning Gavin over won't be easy. I've looked into him—no hint of scandal. Only articles about his competitions and performances." ... ... ...