Chapter 672:

Elyse chuckled. “I know you’ve been kind to me, Pearce. I’ll remember it.”

After leaving the Bensons’ estate, Elyse felt an overwhelming sense of relief. She had a low opinion of the Benson family, except for Pearce, and felt no sense of belonging there. Her visit had been born of sheer curiosity, not a desire to rekindle old ties or reclaim a place among them.

She was acutely aware of her lack of a true home. Relying on others for security had only ever led to heartbreak and abandonment. She understood, with resolute clarity, that she was her own sanctuary.

Seeking distraction, Elyse instructed the driver to take her to the mall. As the car veered towards the bustling shopping center, her mind wandered to more mundane concerns. Once inside, she began to shop.

She passed a high-end clothing store. Reminded of her upcoming competitions, she entered, her curiosity piqued by the elegant displays. As she perused the racks for suitable outfits, she sensed someone approaching. Swiftly turning, she found herself face-to-face with a stranger.

With a raised eyebrow and a hint of confusion, Elyse asked, “Do you know me?”

The woman looked her up and down, rolling her eyes disdainfully. “It really is you, the girl who recently returned to the Benson family.”

Elyse, puzzled by the recognition, replied, “Who are you? I don’t think we’ve met before.”

“Of course, you don’t know me,” the woman said with a sneer. “I’m Claire Lipson, a good friend of Thea’s.” Claire crossed her arms and stared at Elyse with a mix of arrogance and suspicion. “What are your intentions for reuniting with the Benson family?”

Elyse was baffled. “Intentions? What do you mean?”

Claire rolled her eyes, exasperated. “Stop acting clueless. Everyone knows you aim to fight for shares and inheritance. You even want to take Thea’s place, don’t you?”

Elyse remained silent. She had heard rumors that Felicia planned to distribute her shares among the younger generation, stirring up internal conflict. But what did that have to do with her? She didn’t want anything from them. The idea of replacing Thea was absurd. She hadn’t even planned to live with them.

Taking a deep breath, Elyse replied, “Who told you I wanted to replace Thea? That’s a funny assumption. Tell them I don’t care. I’m just here for a visit and will leave soon.”

Claire’s tone grew sharp and sarcastic. “What a huge lie. You claim you don’t want anything, but who would believe that? You’re playing the game well, pretending to want nothing while actually aiming for everything.”

Elyse realized Claire was unyielding. No matter what she said, Claire wouldn’t believe her, so there was no point in arguing.

Her expression darkened. “Move aside, or don’t blame me for being rude.”

Noticing Elyse’s shift in demeanor, Claire quickly retorted, “I knew you were pretending. I’m warning you, Thea is Felicia’s favorite granddaughter. Don’t think you can replace her.”

Elyse, growing impatient, said, “Tell Thea I won’t take what rightfully belongs to her. You all should stop bothering me.”