Chapter 703:

Pearce realized arguing with his grandmother was pointless. He admitted, “Elyse came back only to visit you on behalf of her father, but you’ve never really embraced her. Why would she want to stay with us?”

He paused, then cautiously continued, “Moreover, during her stay in town, you treated her terribly, always scolding and punishing her. You even locked her in a dark room without food or water.”

Felicia glared at Pearce.

Pearce winced slightly but stood his ground, adding firmly, “We’re meant to be family, yet you treat her as if she doesn’t belong. Why would she ever want to stay with us?”

Visibly irate, Felicia responded sharply, “I won’t debate this with you. Call Elyse out here now; I want to hear it from her.”

“It’s too late,” Pearce replied calmly. “Elyse has already left.”

“How disrespectful!” Felicia shouted, striking the floor with her cane.

“When she was here, you refused to speak to her. Now that she’s gone, you suddenly want to talk?” Pearce pointed out.

Just then, Glenn approached and respectfully announced, “Ms. Bentley has just arrived.”

“Ms. Bentley? Are you referring to Victoria Bentley?” Pearce asked, his tone uncertain.

Glenn confirmed with a nod. “Yes, she’s here, and she’s brought Forrest with her.”

Pearce murmured to himself, “Why did she bring her son? Is she trying to cause trouble?”

Calmly, Felicia suggested, “Why not go and see for yourself instead of guessing?”

Feeling slightly rebuked, Pearce rubbed his head, sighed deeply, and declared, “Alright, I’ll go and see her.”

As they entered the reception room, their gaze landed on Victoria. She was standing, captivated by the expansive view from the large windows. Noticing their presence, her focus shifted, and her face lit up with a smile. “It’s been a while,” she said warmly.

Pearce returned the smile. “Indeed, it has. I think it’s been several years since we last saw each other?”

Victoria replied, maintaining a cool distance, “I think that sounds about right.”

They exchanged brief pleasantries before sitting down across from each other.

Pearce took the lead in the conversation. “Ms. Bentley, may I ask what brings you here today?”

Victoria arched an eyebrow and crossed her arms. “You’re not aware? Elyse didn’t mention my visit?”

Pearce’s thoughts were in turmoil. How was Elyse connected to all this? Yet, she hadn’t mentioned it to him.

Victoria’s comment seemed to provoke Felicia, who looked visibly upset. “Has Elyse caused some trouble?” she asked, turning to Pearce. “I’ve always said she needs more discipline. She must learn proper behavior!”

Pearce’s face grew stern, and he spoke firmly. “Grandma, Ms. Bentley hasn’t given us any details yet, so please refrain from jumping to conclusions!”

At Pearce’s response, Felicia became visibly angry. “Are you suggesting I am treating her unfairly? How much does that unrefined girl really understand about manners?”

“Grandma!” Pearce’s patience had reached its limits. His tone grew louder. “Please take some time to truly understand her before you judge her. I’m not sure where these ideas are coming from, but I will not stand by while you disparage her like this!”

Felicia gasped, her hand flying to her chest as she struggled for air. . . .